VersArray System Manual

Transcription

4411-0093
Version 1.C
February 5, 2003
*4411-0093*
Copyright 2003
Roper Scientific, Inc.
3660 Quakerbridge Rd
Trenton, NJ 08619
TEL: 609-587-9797
FAX: 609-587-1970
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without the written
permission of Roper Scientific, Inc.
Printed in the United States of America.
CRYOTIGER is a registered trademark of APD Cryogenics, Inc.
Nikon is a registered trademark of Nikon, Inc.
PVCAM is a registered trademark of Photometrics, Ltd., a division of Roper Scientific, Inc.
Radio Shack is a registered trademark of TRS Quality, Inc.
SpectraPro is a trademark of Acton Research Corporation.
Styrofoam is a registered trademark of Dow Chemical Company.
TAXI is a registered trademark of AMD Corporation.
VersArray is a registered trademark of Roper Scientific, Inc.
Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However,
Roper Scientific, Inc. does not assume any responsibility for any consequences including any damages
resulting from the use thereof. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Revision of this publication may be issued to incorporate such change.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction.......................................................................................11
VersArray® Family of Cameras ....................................................................................... 11
Complete Camera Control ................................................................................................ 11
System Components ......................................................................................................... 12
Standard Components................................................................................................. 12
Optional System Components .................................................................................... 12
Application Software ........................................................................................................ 12
About this Manual ............................................................................................................ 13
Manual Organization.................................................................................................. 13
Safety Related Symbols Used in this Manual ............................................................ 14
Grounding and Safety ....................................................................................................... 14
Precautions........................................................................................................................ 15
UV Effect on Scintillator .................................................................................................. 15
Cleaning............................................................................................................................ 16
Controller and Camera ............................................................................................... 16
Optical Surfaces ......................................................................................................... 16
CRYOTIGER Compressor......................................................................................... 16
Repairs .............................................................................................................................. 16
Chapter 2 Installation Overview........................................................................17
Chapter 3 System Setup ....................................................................................21
Introduction....................................................................................................................... 21
Unpacking the System ...................................................................................................... 22
Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory................................................................... 22
System Requirements ....................................................................................................... 23
Environmental Requirements ..................................................................................... 23
Ventilation.................................................................................................................. 23
Coolant ....................................................................................................................... 24
Power.......................................................................................................................... 24
Host Computer Requirements .................................................................................... 24
Verifying Voltage Settings ............................................................................................... 25
ST-133A ..................................................................................................................... 25
CRYOTIGER Compressor......................................................................................... 25
Installing the Application Software .................................................................................. 26
Installing the Interface Card.............................................................................................. 26
Installing the PCI Card Driver .......................................................................................... 27
Attaching Lenses to C- and F-Mount Adapters ................................................................ 27
Attaching to a C-Mount Adapter................................................................................ 27
Attaching to an F-Mount Adapter .............................................................................. 28
Mounting to a Spectrometer ............................................................................................. 29
Array Orientation ....................................................................................................... 30
Deep Focal Plane........................................................................................................ 30
Shallow Focal Plane ................................................................................................... 31
Entrance Slit Shutter................................................................................................... 32
iii
iv
Version 1.C
Shutter Cable Connection........................................................................................... 33
Overexposure Protection ............................................................................................ 33
Mounting a TE-Cooled VersArray Camera to a Microscope ........................................... 34
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 34
Mounting the Camera on the Microscope .................................................................. 34
F-Mount...................................................................................................................... 35
C-Mount ..................................................................................................................... 36
Adjusting the Parfocality of the Camera .................................................................... 37
Installing the Controller .................................................................................................... 38
Attaching/Connecting Shutters ......................................................................................... 39
Internal Shutters ......................................................................................................... 39
Shutter Cable .............................................................................................................. 40
35 mm Shutter ............................................................................................................ 40
Shutter Setting Selection ............................................................................................ 40
Overheating ................................................................................................................ 41
Making the Coolant Circulator-Detector Connections ..................................................... 41
Setting up a CRYOTIGER Compressor ........................................................................... 44
Chapter 4 Operation...........................................................................................47
Introduction....................................................................................................................... 47
Thermoelectric Cooling .................................................................................................... 48
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 48
TE Air-Assisted.......................................................................................................... 48
TE Liquid-Assist ........................................................................................................ 48
TE Liquid-Cooled ...................................................................................................... 49
LN Cooling ....................................................................................................................... 49
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 49
Holding Times............................................................................................................ 49
Filling the Dewar........................................................................................................ 50
Dewar Options............................................................................................................ 51
CRYOTIGER Cooling...................................................................................................... 52
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 52
Warnings and Cautions .............................................................................................. 52
Operation and Maintenance........................................................................................ 53
Setting the Operating Temperature................................................................................... 55
Baseline Signal ................................................................................................................. 55
F-Mount Adapter Focusing Procedure.............................................................................. 56
Lens Focusing Procedure.................................................................................................. 57
Field of View .................................................................................................................... 57
Setting the Camera Gain ................................................................................................... 58
Operation .......................................................................................................................... 58
First Light (Imaging) ........................................................................................................ 59
Assumptions ............................................................................................................... 59
Warnings .................................................................................................................... 59
Getting Started............................................................................................................ 59
Setting the Parameters ................................................................................................ 60
Acquiring Data ........................................................................................................... 61
First Light (Spectroscopy) ................................................................................................ 62
Assumptions ............................................................................................................... 62
Getting Started............................................................................................................ 62
Table of Contents
v
Setting the Parameters ................................................................................................ 62
Focusing ..................................................................................................................... 63
Chapter 5 Timing Modes....................................................................................65
Full Speed or Safe Mode .................................................................................................. 65
Standard Timing Modes.................................................................................................... 66
Free Run ..................................................................................................................... 68
External Sync ............................................................................................................. 68
External Sync with Continuous Cleans Timing................................................................ 70
Chapter 6 Exposure and Readout.....................................................................73
Introduction....................................................................................................................... 73
Exposure ........................................................................................................................... 73
Exposure with a Mechanical Shutter.......................................................................... 74
Continuous Exposure (No Shuttering) ....................................................................... 74
Saturation ................................................................................................................... 75
Dark Charge ............................................................................................................... 75
Array Readout................................................................................................................... 75
Full Frame .................................................................................................................. 76
Binning....................................................................................................................... 77
Digitization ....................................................................................................................... 79
Dual A/D Converters Option...................................................................................... 79
Chapter 7 System Component Descriptions ...................................................81
VersArray Camera ............................................................................................................ 81
ST-133A Controller .......................................................................................................... 83
Cables ............................................................................................................................... 85
Interface Card ................................................................................................................... 85
Application Software ........................................................................................................ 86
User Manuals .................................................................................................................... 86
Chapter 8 TTL Control .......................................................................................87
Introduction....................................................................................................................... 87
TTL In............................................................................................................................... 87
Buffered vs. Latched Inputs.............................................................................................. 88
TTL Out ............................................................................................................................ 88
TTL Diagnostics Screen ................................................................................................... 89
Hardware Interface ........................................................................................................... 89
Example...................................................................................................................... 90
Chapter 9 Troubleshooting ...............................................................................91
Introduction....................................................................................................................... 91
Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes................................................................................... 92
Camera Stops Working..................................................................................................... 92
Changing the ST-133A Line Voltage and Fuses .............................................................. 93
Controller Is Not Responding ........................................................................................... 94
Cooling Troubleshooting .................................................................................................. 95
Temperature Lock Cannot be Achieved or Maintained. ............................................ 95
Camera loses Temperature Lock................................................................................ 95
Gradual Deterioration of Cooling Capability ............................................................. 95
CRYOTIGER Compressor ............................................................................................... 96
Error Occurs at Computer Powerup.................................................................................. 97
vi
Version 1.C
Excessive Readout Noise.................................................................................................. 99
No Images ......................................................................................................................... 99
Overexposed or Smeared Images.................................................................................... 100
Removing/Installing a Module ....................................................................................... 100
Shutter Failure................................................................................................................. 101
Vignetting: LN- or CRYOTIGER-cooled Cameras........................................................ 101
Appendix A Specifications ..............................................................................103
Window........................................................................................................................... 103
CCD Arrays .................................................................................................................... 103
Mounts ............................................................................................................................ 103
Focal Distance................................................................................................................. 103
Shutter............................................................................................................................. 103
Camera Head................................................................................................................... 104
Controller ........................................................................................................................ 104
CRYOTIGER® Compressor........................................................................................... 105
Options............................................................................................................................ 105
Appendix B Outline Drawings.........................................................................107
VersArray TE Camera: Air- and Liquid-Assist .............................................................. 107
VersArray TE Camera: Liquid-Cooled........................................................................... 110
VersArray LN-Cooled Camera ....................................................................................... 113
VersArrayCT Camera ....................................................................................................... 115
CRYOTIGER Compressor ............................................................................................. 117
ST-133A Controller ........................................................................................................ 118
Appendix C LN Autofill System ......................................................................119
General Information........................................................................................................ 119
Unpacking the System .................................................................................................... 120
System Components ....................................................................................................... 120
Model 186 Front and Rear Panel Controls and Connectors............................................ 121
Front Panel ............................................................................................................... 121
Rear Panel ................................................................................................................ 122
Setting up the System ..................................................................................................... 122
Calibration ...................................................................................................................... 125
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 125
Relationship between Calibration and Sensor Length.............................................. 125
Calibration Procedure ..................................................................................................... 125
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 125
Resetting the MAX/MIN Calibration Points and Cadj Factor.................................. 126
Operation ........................................................................................................................ 127
Turn on the Model 186............................................................................................. 127
Active Length Setting............................................................................................... 127
HI and LO SETPOINTs ........................................................................................... 128
A and B SETPOINTs ............................................................................................... 128
Controller Output Receptacle Operational Mode..................................................... 129
Fill Timer INTERVAL............................................................................................. 129
Units Display Output................................................................................................ 130
Serial Communication .................................................................................................... 130
Serial Port Connector and Cabling........................................................................... 130
Command/Return Termination Characters............................................................... 130
Table of Contents
vii
Serial Communication DIP Switch Settings............................................................. 131
Serial Command Set Reference................................................................................ 132
J2 Connector Pinout........................................................................................................ 136
RS-232 Cable DB-25 to DB-9 Translation..................................................................... 136
RS-422 Cable Wiring...................................................................................................... 137
Dielectric Constants for Common Liquids ..................................................................... 137
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................. 138
Custom Instrument Configurations................................................................................. 140
Additional Technical Support ......................................................................................... 141
Return Authorization................................................................................................ 141
Specifications.................................................................................................................. 141
Level Measurements................................................................................................. 141
Operating Parameters ............................................................................................... 141
Power Requirements................................................................................................. 142
Physical .................................................................................................................... 142
Environmental .......................................................................................................... 142
Appendix D Spectrometer Adapters...............................................................143
Acton (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)................................................... 144
Chromex 250 IS (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter) .................................. 145
ISA HR 320 (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter) ........................................ 146
ISA HR 640 (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter) ........................................ 147
JY TRIAX family (NTE without shutter) ....................................................................... 148
SPEX 270M (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter) ........................................ 149
SPEX 500M (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter) ........................................ 150
SPEX TripleMate (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)................................ 151
Declarations of Conformity .............................................................................153
Warranty & Service ..........................................................................................157
Limited Warranty: Roper Scientific Analytical Instrumentation.................................... 157
Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty ..................................................................... 157
Limited One (1) Year Warranty on Refurbished or Discontinued Products ............ 157
Shutter Limited One Year Warranty ........................................................................ 157
VersArray (XP) Vacuum Chamber Limited Lifetime Warranty.............................. 158
Sealed Chamber Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty........................................... 158
Vacuum Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty ....................................................... 158
Image Intensifier Detector Limited One Year Warranty.......................................... 158
X-Ray Detector Limited One Year Warranty .......................................................... 158
Software Limited Warranty...................................................................................... 159
Owner's Manual and Troubleshooting ..................................................................... 159
Your Responsibility.................................................................................................. 159
Contact Information........................................................................................................ 160
Index ..................................................................................................................161
Figures
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Figure 3.
Figure 4.
Figure 5.
Standard Components....................................................................................... 12
Imaging System Diagram: TE-cooled Camera................................................. 18
Imaging System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera ................................................ 18
Imaging System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera.............................. 19
Spectroscopy System Diagram: TE-cooled Camera ........................................ 19
viii
Version 1.C
Figure 6. Spectroscopy System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera ........................................ 20
Figure 7. System Configurations ..................................................................................... 21
Figure 8. Controller Power Module ................................................................................. 25
Figure 9. WinView Installation: Interface Card Driver Selection ................................... 26
Figure 10. F-Mount Adapter 1 for TE-Cooled Cameras.................................................. 28
Figure 11. F-Mount Adapter 2 for TE-, LN-, and CRYOTIGER-Cooled Cameras ........ 28
Figure 12. Binning and Array Orientation....................................................................... 30
Figure 13. Adapter for Deep Focal Plane Spectrograph .................................................. 31
Figure 14. Type 1 Camera Adapter.................................................................................. 32
Figure 15. Type 2 Camera Adapter.................................................................................. 32
Figure 16. Type 1 Entrance Slit Shutter Mount ............................................................... 32
Figure 17. Type 2 Entrance Slit Mount ........................................................................... 33
Figure 18. Bottom Lamp Secured to Relay Lens............................................................ 35
Figure 19. Diagnostic Instruments Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes .............. 37
Figure 20. 35 mm Shutter Coverage on 1340×1300 Array for F-mount Design............. 40
Figure 21. 70 V Shutter Option Label ............................................................................. 40
Figure 22. Shutter Setting for Large Internal Shutter (40 mm) ....................................... 40
Figure 23. Coolant Ports .................................................................................................. 43
Figure 24. System Diagram: Air-Assist/Liquid-Assist TE Camera with Coolant
Circulator........................................................................................................ 43
Figure 25. System Diagram: Liquid-Cooled TE Camera with Coolant Circulator.......... 43
Figure 26. Connect Gas Line to Compressor or Camera ................................................. 46
Figure 27. Imaging System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera............................ 46
Figure 28. Dewar Ports and Valves ................................................................................. 50
Figure 29. System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera............................................................. 51
Figure 30. Charge Pressure vs. Ambient Temperature .................................................... 54
Figure 31. System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-cooled Camera ........................................... 54
Figure 32. WinView Detector Temperature dialog box .................................................. 55
Figure 33. F-mount Adjustment....................................................................................... 56
Figure 34. Imaging Field of View.................................................................................... 57
Figure 35. LN-cooled Camera Gain Switch Settings....................................................... 58
Figure 36. Chart of Safe (async) and Full Speed Mode (sync) Operation....................... 67
Figure 37. Free Run Timing Chart, Part of the Chart in Figure 36................................. 68
Figure 38. Free Run Timing Diagram.............................................................................. 68
Figure 39. Chart Showing Two External Sync Timing Options...................................... 69
Figure 40. Timing Diagram for External Sync Mode...................................................... 70
Figure 41. Continuous Cleans Flowchart......................................................................... 70
Figure 42. Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram .............................................................. 71
Figure 43. Block Diagram of Light Path in System......................................................... 73
Figure 44. Exposure of the CCD with Shutter Compensation......................................... 74
Figure 45. Full Frame at Full Resolution......................................................................... 76
Figure 46. 2 × 2 Binning.................................................................................................. 78
Figure 47. Controller Front Panel .................................................................................... 83
Figure 48. TTL IN/OUT Connector................................................................................. 89
Figure 49. Power Input Module....................................................................................... 93
Figure 50. Fuse Holder .................................................................................................... 93
Figure 51. Module Installation....................................................................................... 100
Figure 52. TE F-Mount: Side and Bottom Views.......................................................... 107
Figure 53. TE F-Mount: Front and Back Views ............................................................ 107
Figure 54. TE C-Mount: Side and Bottom Views ......................................................... 108
Table of Contents
Figure 55.
Figure 56.
Figure 57.
Figure 58.
Figure 59.
Figure 60.
Figure 61.
Figure 62.
Figure 63.
Figure 64.
Figure 65.
Figure 66.
Figure 67.
Figure 68.
Figure 69.
Figure 70.
Figure 71.
ix
TE C-Mount: Front and Back Views............................................................ 108
Fiber-Optic Coupled: Side and Bottom Views............................................. 109
Fiber-Optic Coupled: Front and Back Views ............................................... 109
TE F-Mount: Side and Bottom Views.......................................................... 110
TE F-Mount: Front and Back Views ............................................................ 110
TE C-Mount: Side and Bottom Views ......................................................... 111
TE C-Mount: Front and Back Views............................................................ 111
Fiber-Optic Coupled: Side and Bottom Views............................................. 112
Fiber-Optic Coupled: Front and Back Views ............................................... 112
Side-Looking Dewar .................................................................................... 113
Down-Looking Dewar.................................................................................. 114
CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera without Shutter ........................................... 115
CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera with Shutter ................................................ 116
CRYOTIGER Compressor........................................................................... 117
ST-133A ....................................................................................................... 118
LN Autofill System ...................................................................................... 119
Model 186 Instrument, Control Valve and Sensor System Diagram ........... 124
Tables
Table 1. ST-133A Line Voltage and Fuse Requirements ................................................ 23
Table 2. PCI Driver Files ................................................................................................. 27
Table 3. Shallow Focal Plane Mount Types .................................................................... 31
Table 4. Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes........................................................ 36
Table 5. ST-133A Shutter Setting Selection.................................................................... 41
Table 6. Approximate Temperature Range vs. CCD ....................................................... 49
Table 7. Camera Timing Modes ...................................................................................... 65
Table 8. Bit Values with Decimal Equivalents: 1 = High, 0 = Low ............................... 88
Table 9. TTL In/Out Connector Pinout............................................................................ 89
Table 10. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments before Installing Serial Card ............... 98
Table 11. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments after Installing Serial Card.................. 98
Table 12. Typical Values for Setpoints.......................................................................... 129
Table 13. Dielectric Constants for Common Liquids .................................................... 137
x
This page intentionally left blank.
Version 1.C
Chapter 1
Introduction
VersArray® Family of Cameras
The VersArray CCD cameras are highperformance digital systems designed for
demanding low-light applications. The
line incorporates a wide selection of fullframe, front- or back-illuminated,
scientific-grade CCDs, a choice of
thermoelectric or cryogenic cooling, and
low-noise electronics to provide high
sensitivity and high dynamic range.
Permanent coatings are available to
extend the range of the cameras into the
UV while maintaining high quantum
efficiency. The VersArray cameras are therefore ideal for a wide variety of demanding
applications, including high-throughput screening, streak tube readout, gel
documentation, astronomy, pressure-sensitive paint imaging, and semiconductor failure
analysis.
Complete Camera Control
The operation of the VersArray camera is regulated by the camera controller. This
electronics box contains the circuitry required to accept input from the host computer and
software and convert it to appropriate control signals for the camera. These signals include
extensive capabilities for synchronizing the operation of the VersArray system with the rest
of your experiment. Because all the sensitive electronic circuits are enclosed in the
EM-shielded controller, the system is able to deliver the lowest noise performance, even in
a less-than-optimal environment. The controller unit also collects the analog signal returned
by the camera, digitizes it, and sends it to the computer. Power supplies for the camera,
along with temperature-regulation circuits, are also contained in the controller.
The controller allows you to specify read rate, on-chip binning parameters (m x n), and
regions of interest — all under software control. For instance, if your experiment requires
rapid image acquisition, then the CCD’s on-chip binning can be set to increase frame
rates. For the utmost in versatility, the VersArray controller can be configured with a
dual-speed digitizer that provides fast imaging rates and low-noise readout modes.
11
12
Version 1.C
System Components
Standard Components
A VersArray system consists of the camera, an ST-133A controller, the appropriate
interface hardware for your computer system, and this user manual. Note that an internal
shutter is standard with the thermoelectric and cryogenic (LN-cooled) cameras.
Figure 1. Standard Components
Optional System Components
Optional items include the WinView/32 application software, mounting adapters, coolant
circulators, and dual digitization capability.
Application Software
The VersArray camera can be operated by using WinView/32, Roper Scientific's 32-bit
Windows® software package designed specifically for high-end imaging or by using
other commercially available image processing packages. WinView/32 provides
comprehensive image capture and display functions, so you can perform data acquisition
without having to rely on third-party software. The package also facilitates snap-ins to
permit easy customization of any function or sequence. Using the built-in macro record
function, you can also create and edit your own macros to automate a variety of
operations. WinView takes full advantage of the versatility of the VersArray camera and
even enhances it by making integration of the detection system into larger experiments or
instruments an easy, straightforward endeavor.
Chapter 1
Introduction
13
Note: WinView/32 (version 2.5+) supports Programmable Virtual Camera Access
Method (PVCAM®), a library of functions that can be used to control and acquire data.
Image processing must be provided via custom code or by extensions to other
commercially available image processing packages.
About this Manual
Manual Organization
This manual provides the user with all the information needed to install a VersArray
camera and place it in operation. Topics covered include detailed description of the
cameras in the VersArray family, installation, microscopy applications, cleaning,
specifications and more.
Chapter 1, Introduction provides an overview of the VersArray cameras.
Chapter 2, Installation Overview cross-references system setup actions with the
relevant manuals and/or manual pages. It also contains system layout diagrams.
Chapter 3, System Setup provides detailed directions for setting up the camera
for imaging, spectroscopic, or microscopy applications and presents overexposure protection considerations.
Chapter 4, Operation discusses a number of topics, including cooling and effects
of high humidity and includes a step-by-step procedure for verifying system
operation.
Chapter 5, Timing Modes discusses the basic Controller timing modes and
related topics, including Synchronous vs. Asynchronous, Free Run, External
Sync, and Continuous Cleans.
Chapter 6, Exposure and Readout discusses Exposure and Readout, together
with many peripheral topics, including shuttered and unshuttered exposure,
saturation, dark charge, and binning.
Chapter 7, System Component Descriptions provides information about the
camera, controller, interface card, cables and application software.
Chapter 8, TTL Control provides information about how to use the TTL connector
on the rear of the controller.
Chapter 9, Troubleshooting provides courses of action to take if you should
have problems with your system.
Appendix A, Specifications includes camera and controller specifications.
Appendix B, Outline Drawings includes outline drawings of C-mount, F-mount,
and fiber-optic coupled cameras.
Appendix C, LN Autofill System discusses how to set up and operate the
optional Autofill system for side-looking and down-looking LN-cooled cameras.
Appendix D, Spectrometer Adapters provides mounting instructions for the
spectrometer adapters available for VersArray LN and NTE cameras.
Declarations of Conformity contains the Declarations of Conformity for
VersArray systems (LN-, NTE-, and TEA-cooled).
14
Version 1.C
Warranty & Service provides the Roper Scientific warranty and customer support
contact information.
Safety Related Symbols Used in this Manual
Caution! The use of this symbol on equipment indicates that one or
more nearby items should not be operated without first consulting the
manual. The same symbol appears in the manual adjacent to the text
that discusses the hardware item(s) in question.
Warning! Risk of electric shock! The use of this symbol on
equipment indicates that one or more nearby items pose an electric
shock hazard and should be regarded as potentially dangerous. This
same symbol appears in the manual adjacent to the text that discusses
the hardware item(s) in question.
Grounding and Safety
The ST-133A is of Class I category as defined in IEC Publication 348 (Safety
Requirements for Electronic Measuring Apparatus). It is designed for indoor operation
only. Before turning on the controller, the ground prong of the powercord plug must be
properly connected to the ground connector of the wall outlet. The wall outlet must have
a third prong, or must be properly connected to an adapter that complies with these safety
requirements.
WARNING! If the equipment is damaged, the protective grounding could be disconnected. Do not use
damaged equipment until its safety has been verified by authorized personnel.
Disconnecting the protective earth terminal, inside or outside the apparatus, or any
tampering with its operation is also prohibited.
Inspect the supplied powercord. If it is not compatible with the power socket, replace the
cord with one that has suitable connectors on both ends.
WARNING! Replacement powercords or power plugs must have the same polarity as that of the
original ones to avoid hazard due to electrical shock.
Chapter 1
Introduction
15
Precautions
To prevent permanently damaging the system, please observe the following precautions:
•
Always switch off and unplug the ST-133A Controller before changing your
system configuration in any way.
•
The CCD array is very sensitive to static electricity. Touching the CCD can
destroy it. Operations requiring contact with the device can only be performed at
the factory.
•
If you are using high-voltage equipment (such as an arc lamp) with your camera
system, be sure to turn the controller power ON LAST and turn the controller
power OFF FIRST.
•
Use caution when triggering high-current switching devices (such as an arc lamp)
near your system. The CCD can be permanently damaged by transient voltage
spikes. If electrically noisy devices are present, an isolated, conditioned power
line or dedicated isolation transformer is highly recommended.
•
Never connect or disconnect any cable while the system is powered on.
Reconnecting a charged cable may damage the CCD.
•
Never prevent the free flow of air through the equipment by blocking the air
vents.
•
Never operate a liquid-assisted or liquid-cooled-only VersArray camera with
coolant at a temperature below that specified for it.
UV Effect on Scintillator
Caution If you have a camera with a UV scintillator (lumogen) coated CCD, protect it from
unnecessary exposure to UV radiation. This radiation slowly bleaches the scintillator,
reducing sensitivity.
16
Version 1.C
Cleaning
WARNING!
Turn off all power to the equipment and secure all covers before cleaning the units.
Otherwise, damage to the equipment or injury to you could occur.
Controller and Camera
Although there is no periodic maintenance that must be performed on a VersArray
camera, users are advised to wipe it down with a clean damp cloth from time to time.
This operation should only be done on the external surfaces and with all covers secured.
In dampening the cloth, use clean water only. No soap, solvents or abrasives should be
used. Not only are they not required, but they could damage the finish of the surfaces on
which they are used.
Optical Surfaces
Optical surfaces may need to be cleaned due to the accumulation of atmospheric dust. We
advise that the drag-wipe technique be used. This involves dipping a clean cellulose lens
tissue into clean anhydrous methanol, and then dragging the dampened tissue over the
optical surface to be cleaned. Do not allow any other material to touch the optical
surfaces.
CRYOTIGER Compressor
Refer to the maintenance and cleaning instructions in the CRYOTIGER compressor
manual.
Repairs
Save the original packing materials. Because the VersArray camera system contains no
user-serviceable parts, repairs must be done by Roper Scientific. Should your system
need repair, contact Roper Scientific technical support for instructions (telephone, e-mail,
and address information are provided on page 160 of this manual).
Use the original packing materials whenever shipping the system or system components.
Chapter 2
Installation Overview
The list and diagrams below briefly describe the sequence of actions required to
hookup your system and prepare to gather data. Refer to the indicated references
for more detailed information.
Action
Reference
1. If the system components have not already been unpacked, unpack
them and inspect their carton(s) and the system components for
in-transit damage.
Chapter 3 System Setup,
page 22
2. Verify that all system components have been received.
page 22
3. If the components show no signs of damage, verify that the
appropriate voltage settings have been selected for the Controller.
page 25
4. If the application software is not already installed in the host
computer, install it.
page 26 & Software manual
5. If the appropriate interface card is not already installed in the host
computer, install it.
page 26
6. Depending on application, attach lens to camera, mount camera to
spectrometer, or mount camera to a microscope
page 27, page 29, or page 34
7. With the Controller power turned OFF, connect the Detector-Controller
cable to the appropriate connector on the rear of the Controller and the
other end to the appropriate connector on the rear of the Camera.
Adjust the slide latches so the cable connections are locked.
page 38
8. With the Controller and computer power turned OFF, connect the
TAXI® cable to the Controller and the interface card in the host
computer. Then tighten down the locking hardware.
page 38
9. With the Controller power turned OFF, connect the Controller
power cable to the rear of the controller and to the power source.
page 38
10. If the system is cooled by coolant circulation, make the tubing
connections between the coolant circulator or CRYOTIGER and the
camera. If the system is LN-cooled, DO NOT FILL DEWAR YET.
Coolant Circulator, page 41
CRYOTIGER, page 44
11. Turn the Controller ON.
12. Turn on the computer and begin running the application software.
Software manual
13. Enter the hardware setup information or load the defaults from the
controller.
Software manual
17
18
Version 1.C
Action
Reference
14. Set the target array temperature.
Chapter 4 Operation,
page 55
15. If the system is LN-cooled, fill the Dewar.
page 49
16. When the system reaches temperature lock, wait an additional 20
minutes and then begin acquiring data in focus mode.
page 59 or page 62
17. Adjust the focus for the best image or spectral lines. If you are using
WinSpec/32, you may want to use the Focus Helper function for this
purpose.
page 59 or page 62
110/220
Detector-Controller
Inlet
TAXI cable
(Serial Com)
Shutter
110/220
Coolant
Camera
Circulator Outlet
Detector
Serial
110/220
Controller
Computer
EXPERIMENT
Figure 2. Imaging System Diagram: TE-cooled Camera
TAXI cable
(Serial Com)
Camera
110/220
Detector
Serial
110/220
Shutter
Controller
Computer
EXPERIMENT
Figure 3. Imaging System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera
Chapter 2
Installation Overview
19
110/220
Supply: Red
Return: Green
375 p.s.i.
Relief
Valve
Computer
Serial
Comm
Shutter
110/220
Flexible
Gaslines
Cryocooler
(Cold End)
110/220
Detector
Serial
Camera
Controller
AIRFLOW
Supply
AIRFLOW
Shutter
Return
CRYOTIGER®
Air-Cooled Compressor
EXPERIMENT
Figure 4. Imaging System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera
110/220
Detector-Controller
Inlet
TAXI cable
(Serial Com)
Shutter
110/220
Coolant
Detector
Circulator Outlet
Detector
Serial
110/220
Controller
EXPERIMENT
Spectrometer
Computer
Figure 5. Spectroscopy System Diagram: TE-cooled Camera
20
Version 1.C
TAXI cable
(Serial Com)
Detector
Detector-Controller
110/22
Shutter
Detector
Serial
110/22
Shutter
Controller
EXPERIMENT
Spectrometer
Computer
Figure 6. Spectroscopy System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera
Chapter 3
System Setup
To minimize risk to users or to system equipment, turn the system OFF before any cables
are connected or disconnected.
Introduction
A VersArray camera system consists
of four hardware components:
•
Interface hardware
•
Controller
•
Camera head (air-assisted,
liquid-assisted, or liquid-only
thermoelectric; LN; or
CRYOTIGER cooling)
•
Cables
A VersArray system with a liquidcooled camera head also requires a
coolant circulator. A VersArrayCT
system includes a CRYOTIGER
cooling system. All of the
components and cables required for
your configuration should be
included with your shipment. Your
VersArray system has been specially
configured and calibrated to match
the camera and readout rate options
specified at the time of purchase. The
CCD and coating you ordered has
been installed in your camera head.
VersArray System Configurations
Interface Hardware
Controller
TE-Cooled
CCD Camera
LN-Cooled
CCD Camera
Coolant
Circulator
(Optional)
CryoTiger-Cooled
CCD Camera
CryoTiger
Refrigerator
Cables, Hoses, and Pipes
User I/O
TAXI cable
Detector-Controller Cable
AC Power Cord
Coolant Hoses
Refrigerant Pipes
Figure 7. System Configurations
Keep all the original packing materials so you can safely ship the VersArray system to
another location or return it for service if necessary. If you have any difficulty with any
step of the instructions, call Roper Scientific Customer Service. For Contact Information,
refer to page 160.
Hardware installation may consist of:
•
Installing an interface card.
•
Attaching a lens to a C- or F-mount adapter.
•
Connecting the camera to the controller.
21
22
Version 1.C
•
Selecting the appropriate power for an internal shutter.
•
Connecting the camera to an external shutter, if one is required.
•
Mounting the camera to a spectrometer or to a microscope.
•
Connecting the camera to a coolant supply or a CRYOTIGER refrigeration
system.
Software installation depends on the application software you will be using to run the
system. Refer to the manual supplied with the software for information about installing
and setting it up.
Unpacking the System
During the unpacking, check the system components for possible signs of shipping
damage. If there are any, notify Roper Scientific and file a claim with the carrier. If
damage is not apparent but camera or controller specifications cannot be achieved,
internal damage may have occurred in shipment. Please save the original packing
materials so you can safely ship the camera system to another location or return it to
Roper Scientific for repairs if necessary.
Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory
Confirm that you have all of the equipment and parts required to set up the VersArray
system. A complete system consists of:
•
Camera (TE air-assisted, liquid-assisted, or liquid-cooled only; LN-cooled; or
CRYOTIGER-cooled).
•
Controller: ST-133A.
•
Detector-Controller cable: DB25 to DB25 cable. Standard length is 10 ft (6050-0321).
Also available in 6’, 15’, 20’, and 30’ lengths.
•
Controller-Computer (TAXI) cable: DB9 to DB9 cable. Standard length is 25 ft
(6050-0148-CE). Lengths up to 165 ft (50 m) are available.
•
Interface Card: High-Speed PCI Interface board
•
Computer: Can be purchased from Roper Scientific or provided by user.
•
VersArray User Manual
•
WinView/32 CD-ROM (optional)
•
System Dependent Interface Components:
Caron Chilled Coolant Circulator and Tubing/Fittings Kit
Chapter 3
System Setup
23
System Requirements
Environmental Requirements
Storage temperature: ≤55°C
Operating environment temperature: 5ºC to +30ºC; for TE-cooled Detectors, the
environment temperature range over which system specifications can be guaranteed
is +18ºC to +23ºC
Relative humidity ≤50%; non-condensing
Notes:
1. When using LN, periodic wiping of the Dewar vent ports may be required to prevent
frost accumulation from interfering with venting. In a spectroscopy setup with an
LN-cooled camera, high humidity conditions may require continuous flushing of the
spectrometer’s exit port with nitrogen.
2. For TE-cooled cameras, the shutter enclosure may have a quartz window that allows
the shutter to be back-filled with dry nitrogen. This further reduces the possibility of
condensation on the window of the camera. The shutter window, if present, can be
seen whenever the lens is removed.
3. For TE-cooled cameras, the cooling performance may degrade if the room
temperature is above +23°C.
4. CRYOTIGER Compressor: Refer to the CRYOTIGER manual for gas pressures
and environmental considerations.
Ventilation
Detector: Allow at least one inch clearance for side and rear air vents. Where the
detector is inside an enclosure, < 30 cfm air circulation and heat dissipation of
100W is required for TE air-cooled detectors.
ST-133A: There is an internal fan located at the right side of the rear panel behind an
exhaust opening. Its purpose is simply to cool the controller electronics. This fan
runs continuously whenever the controller is powered. Air enters the unit through
ventilation openings on the side panels, flows past the warm electronic
components as it rises, and is drawn out the rear of the controller by the fan. It is
important that there be an adequate airflow for proper functioning. As long as
both the controller’s intake ventilation openings and the fan exhaust opening
aren’t obstructed, the controller will remain quite cool.
Fuse Rating
Caution
Line Voltage
Left
Right
100 - 120 ~
0.75A - T (S.B.)
2.50A - T (SB)
220 - 240 ~
0.30A - T (SB)
1.25A - T (SB)
Table 1. ST-133A Line Voltage and Fuse Requirements
The plug on the line cord supplied with the system should be compatible with the linevoltage outlets in common use in the region to which the system is shipped. If the line
cord plug is incompatible, a compatible plug should be installed, taking care to maintain
the proper polarity to protect the equipment and assure user safety.
24
Version 1.C
Coolant
WARNING! COOLANT IS HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
VersArray cameras with liquid-assisted cooling or liquid-only cooling require circulating
coolant (50:50 mixture of ethylene glycol and water) for proper operation. The
recommended flow rate and fluid pressure are: 2 liters/minute at 25 psig (maximum).
Power
Detector: The VersArray camera receives its power from the controller, which in turn
plugs into a source of AC power.
ST-133A: The controller can operate from any one of four different nominal line
voltages: 100, 120, 220, or 240 V AC. The power consumption averages 300
Watts and the line frequency can range from 47 to 63 Hz.
Host Computer Requirements
Note: The following information is only intended to give an approximate indication of
the computer requirements. Please contact the factory to determine your specific needs.
PC System
The host computer for your VersArray system must have the following:
•
AT-compatible computer with 80486 (or higher) processor (50MHz or faster),
Pentium or better recommended.
•
Windows® 95 (or higher) or Windows NT® (version 4.0 or higher) operating
system.
•
High speed PCI serial card or at least one unused PCI card slot. Computers
purchased from Roper Scientific are shipped with card installed.
•
Minimum of 32 Mbyte of RAM for CCDs up to 1.4 million pixels. Collecting
multiple images or spectra at full frame or high speed may require 128 Mbytes or
more of RAM.
•
CD-ROM drive
•
Hard disk with a minimum of 80 Mbytes available. A complete installation of the
program files takes about 6 Mbytes and the remainder is required for data
storage, depending on the number and size of images or spectra collected. Disk
level compression programs are not recommended.
•
Super VGA monitor and graphics card supporting at least 256 colors with at least
1 Mbyte of memory. Memory requirement is dependent on desired display
resolution.
•
Two-button Microsoft compatible serial mouse or Logitech three-button
serial/bus mouse.
Chapter 3
System Setup
25
Verifying Voltage Settings
ST-133A
The Power Module on the rear of the Controller contains the voltage selector drum, fuses
and the powercord connector. The appropriate voltage setting is set at the factory and can
be seen on the back of the power module.
Each setting actually defines a range and the setting that is closest to the actual line
voltage should have been selected. The fuse and power requirements are printed on the
panel above the power module. The correct fuses for the country where the ST-133A is
to be shipped are installed at the factory.
To Check the Controller's Voltage Setting:
1. Look at the lower righthand corner on the rear of the
Controller. The current voltage setting (100, 120, 220,
or 240 VAC) is displayed on the Power Module.
2. If the setting is correct, continue with the installation.
If it is not correct, follow the instructions on page 93
for changing the voltage setting and fuses.
Figure 8. Controller
Power Module
The voltage selector for the CRYOTIGER compressor is located at the lower lefthand
corner of the rear panel.
To Check the Compressor's Voltage Setting:
1. Look at the lower lefthand corner on the rear of the compressor. The current voltage
setting (100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC) is displayed on the Power Module.
2. If the setting is correct, continue with the installation. If is not correct, follow the
instructions in the CRYOTIGER Compressor Operating manual (supplied with the
compressor) for changing the setting and fuses.
26
Version 1.C
Installing the Application Software
Installation is performed via the
WinView/32 or WinSpec/32
installation process, which should
be done before the interface card is
installed in the host computer. On
the Select Components dialog box
(see Figure 9), click on the button
appropriate for the interface card.
For a PCI card, select the AUTO
PCI component to install the
required PCI card driver and the
most commonly installed program
files. If you do not want to install
the PCI driver or would like to
choose among the available
Figure 9. WinView Installation: Interface Card Driver
Selection
program files, select the Custom
component. If the interface card was installed at the factory, the appropriate driver was
installed at that time.
Note: WinView/32 and WinSpec/32 (versions 2.6.0 and higher) do not support the ISA
interface.
Installing the Interface Card
If the computer is purchased from Roper Scientific, it will be shipped with the Serial Buffer
card already installed. PCI Interface boards are standard.
Note: The PCI card can be installed and operated in any Macintosh having a PCI bus,
allowing the ST-133 or ST-133A to be controlled from the Macintosh via IPLab™
software and the PI Extension.
Caution
If using WinView/32 software, either High Speed PCI or PCI(Timer) can be the selected
Interface type. This selection is accessed on the Hardware Setup|Interface tab page.
High Speed PCI allows data transfer to be interrupt-driven and gives the highest
performance in some situations. PCI(Timer) allows data transfer to be controlled by a
polling timer. This selection is recommended when there are multiple devices sharing the
same interrupt.
To Install a PCI Serial Buffer Card:
1. Review the documentation for your computer and PCI card before continuing
with this installation.
2. To avoid risk of dangerous electrical shock and damage to the computer, verify
that the computer power is OFF.
3. Remove the computer cover and verify that there is an available PCI slot.
4. Install the PCI card in the slot.
5. Make sure that the card is firmly seated and secure it.
Chapter 3
System Setup
27
6. Replace and secure the computer cover and turn on the computer only. If an error
occurs at bootup, either the PCI card was not installed properly or there is an
address or interrupt conflict. Go to “Error Occurs at Computer Powerup”,
page 97, for instructions.
Note: The PCI card has no user-changeable jumpers or switches.
Installing the PCI Card Driver
Administrator privileges are required under Windows NT, 2000, and XP to install
software and hardware.
The following information assumes that you have already installed the WinView/32 or
WinSpec/32 software. After you have secured the PCI card in the computer and replaced
the cover, turn the computer on. At bootup, Windows will try to install the new hardware.
If it cannot locate the driver, you will be prompted to enter the directory path, either by
keyboard entry or by using the browse function.
If you selected AUTO PCI during the application software installation, WinView/32 or
WinSpec/32 automatically put the required INF file into the Windows/INF directory and
put the PCI card driver file in the Windows/System32/ Drivers directory.
Windows Version
PCI INF Filename
Located in "Windows"/INF
directory*
PCI Device Driver Name
Located in "Windows"/System32/Drivers
directory
Windows 2000
and XP
rspi.inf (in WINNT/INF, for
example)
rspipci.sys (in WINNT/System32/Drivers,
for example)
Windows NT
N/A
pi_pci.sys
Windows 95, 98,
and ME
pii.inf
pivxdpci.vxd
* The INF directory may be hidden.
Table 2. PCI Driver Files
Attaching Lenses to C- and F-Mount Adapters
Caution Overexposure protection: Cameras that are exposed to room light or other
continuous light sources will quickly become saturated. Set the lens to the smallest
aperture (highest f-number) and cover the lens with a lens cap to prevent overexposure.
Attaching to a C-Mount Adapter
Standard TE-cooled cameras and some TE-cooled cameras with the "microscope nose"
can be ordered with an integral C-mount adapter. C-mount lenses simply screw into the
front of these cameras. Tighten the lens by hand only.
Connecting to a microscope is discussed in "Mounting a TE-Cooled VersArray Camera
to a Microscope" on page 34. If you cannot use the adapter you received, contact the
factory for technical support or replacement. See page 160 for Information on accessing
the Roper Scientific Technical Support Dept.
28
Version 1.C
Note: C-mount cameras are shipped with a dust cover lens installed. Although this lens
is capable of providing surprisingly good images, its throughput is low and the image
quality is not as good as can be obtained with a high-quality camera lens. Users should
replace the dust-cover lens with their own high-quality laboratory lens before making
measurements.
Attaching to an F-Mount Adapter
Cameras for use in imaging systems (cameras) are shipped with the lens mount already
attached. Standard Princeton Instruments™ lens mounts use the Nikon bayonet format, as
shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11. This can be converted to most other formats by using
commercially available adapters. If your optical system cannot be converted to this
format, contact the factory. Other mounts may be available. Consult the factory for
specific information relating to your needs. See page 160 for Information on accessing
the Roper Scientific Technical Support Dept.
Set screw to lock front
part of adapter in place
Lens release lever
Front part of adapter
for adjusting focus
Figure 10. F-Mount Adapter 1 for TE-Cooled
Cameras
Screws for mounting
lens adapter
Set screws to lock
front part of adapter
Lens release lever
Front part of adapter
for adjusting focus
Figure 11. F-Mount Adapter 2 for TE-,
LN-, and CRYOTIGER-Cooled Cameras
Chapter 3
System Setup
29
To Mount the Lens on the Camera:
1. Locate the large indicator dot on the side of the lens.
2. Note the corresponding dot on the front side of the adapter.
3. Line up the dots and slide the lens into the adapter.
4. Turn the lens counterclockwise until a click is heard. The lens is now locked in place.
5. In addition to the focusing ring of the lens, there is provision for focusing the adapter
itself. That adjustment is secured by setscrews on the side of the adapter's adjustment
ring. Directions for focusing the lens and the adapter are provided on page 56.
To Remove the Lens:
1. Locate the lens release lever at the front of the lens mount.
2. Press the lever toward the camera housing and simultaneously rotate the lens
clockwise.
3. Then pull the lens straight out.
Although microscopes more commonly are used with a C-mount adapter, operation with
a camera having an F-mount adapter may also be possible. See "Mounting a TE-Cooled
VersArray Camera to a Microscope" on page 34, Microscopy Applications and the
adapter literature for further directions.
WARNING! The standard LN-cooled side-looking camera or an end-looking LN-cooled camera must
never be tilted more than 30° from vertical unless the “all-directional” Dewar option has
been purchased. If mounting the camera to your system means that you will tilt the
Dewar more than 30°, you may have the wrong type of Dewar. Contact the factory.
Mounting to a Spectrometer
The camera must be properly mounted to the spectrometer to take advantage of all the
available grouping features. Additional precautions must also be taken to prevent
overexposure of the camera.
LN Cameras: At the time of purchase, both the Dewar and the adapter were selected for your
specific application.
WARNING! A Dewar must never be tilted more than 30° from vertical, unless the “all-directional”
Dewar option has been purchased. For this reason, a side-looking camera and an endlooking camera are available for mounting to vertical and horizontal image planes,
respectively. If mounting the Dewar to your system requires you to exceed the 30° limit,
you may have the wrong type of Dewar. Contact the factory.
The distance to the focal plane from the front of the mechanical assembly depends on the
specific configuration. Refer to "Focal Distance" on page 103 for more information.
30
Version 1.C
Array Orientation
For square format CCDs (for example, 512 × 512, 1340 × 1300, or 2048 × 2048) you
may orient the CCD to achieve binning along either direction of the CCD.
•
Binning along columns (parallel mode) provides maximum scan rate and lowest noise.
•
Binning along the rows (perpendicular mode) minimizes crosstalk and is therefore
better for multi-spectral applications. The drawback to this method is that scanning is
slower and noise may increase somewhat.
Output
A1
to A4
Serial Register
D1
C1
B1
A1
to A4 to B4 to C4 to D4
A1
to D1
A5
B5
C5
D5
A5
A4
A3
A2
A1
A6
B6
C6
D6
B5
B4
B3
B2
B1
A7
B7
C7
D7
C5
C4
C3
C2
C1
A8
B8
C8
D8
D5
D4
D3
D2
D1
Parallel Mode
Perpendicular Mode
(binning occurs in
Serial Register)
(binning occurs in Output)
Figure 12. Binning and Array Orientation
Note: Users of TE-cooled cameras can easily switch between these orientations by
rotating the camera 90° and changing the binning parameters in the application software.
Deep Focal Plane
Spectrometers with a focal plane 25 mm or more beyond the exit interface are called deep
focal plane spectrographs. With these spectrographs, the shutter housing (if one has been
installed) remains connected to the camera. Such spectrometers include all Acton models,
the ISA HR320, ISA HR640, Chromex 250IS, and most instruments that are 1 meter or
longer. (If you are not sure of the depth of the exit focal plane, contact the spectrometer
manufacturer.)
Adapters for these spectrographs are generally in two pieces, as shown in Figure 13. The
generic assembly directions that follow can be used as a general guide. However, contact the
factory if you need detailed instructions for your specific adapter.
Chapter 3
System Setup
31
Mounting Directions
1. Bolt Flange 2 to the camera using
the screws provided. In the case of
a camera with mounted shutter,
place Flange 2 over the shutter
housing and bolt the adapter to the
shutter using the screws provided.
Set screw
2. Next, loosen the setscrews (3) on
Flange 1. If Flange 1 is an integral
part of the spectrograph or is
already installed, skip Step 3.
3. Mount Flange 1 to the spectrograph.
Flange 1
Flange 2
Detector
Flange 2
Shutter Housing
4. Slide Flange 2 into Flange 1.
Do not tighten the setscrews until
focusing and alignment are achieved as
discussed in Chapter 4, on page 63.
Set screw
Flange 1
Figure 13. Adapter for Deep Focal Plane
Spectrograph
Shallow Focal Plane
For spectrometers with a focal plane
distance less than 25 mm beyond the
exit interface, the shutter provided
can either be mounted on the entrance
slit of the spectrometer or operated as
a stand-alone shutter. Generally there
is not enough room for a
camera-mounted shutter.
CCD
Type of Mount
EEV (Marconi) 576
Type 1
All other EEV (Marconi)
Type 2
All SITe (Tektronix)
Type 2
PI/PID/RS
Type 1 & 2
Table 3. Shallow Focal Plane Mount Types
The camera mount provided in these
cases does not allow focusing via the adapter. Focusing must be accomplished by
adjusting the spectrometer. Consult the table above to determine the type of mount for
your CCD. The generic assembly directions that follow can be used as a general guide.
However, contact the factory if you need detailed instructions for your specific adapter.
32
Version 1.C
For a Type 1 camera:
1. Mount the flange to the camera using the two halfrings and the screws provided. Note that the tapered
side of each half-ring faces the adapter. See Figure 14.
2. Next, screw the 10-32 hex screws halfway into
three of the six tapped holes in the spectrometer’s
exit plane.
Flange
3. Position the camera so the three hex head screws
line up with the openings in the adapter flange.
4. Slide the camera over the screws and rotate into the
proper orientation.
5. Leave the camera free to rotate until it is
aligned as described in Chapter 4, on page 63.
Half-rings
Detector
Figure 14. Type 1 Camera Adapter
Front of detector
For a Type 2 camera:
1. Mount the adapter to the spectrometer first.
2. Then insert the front of the camera into the
adapter.
3. Thread it into place using the large captive
ring nut on the camera. DO NOT
OVERTIGHTEN THE RING NUT.
Adapter
Ring nut
Figure 15. Type 2 Camera Adapter
Entrance Slit Shutter
This shutter can either be mounted on the
entrance slit of the spectrometer or used as
a stand-alone shutter. Shutters for standalone operation have two tapped holes for
mounting to a stand: one metric, the other
English.
Entrance slit shutter mounts come in two
types. The first type is for use with CP-200
and HR-250 Spectrometers, and is shown
in Figure 16.
Adapter
Mount Body
Retainer
Adapter Mount
Cover
Spectrometer
Figure 16. Type 1 Entrance Slit Shutter Mount
Chapter 3
System Setup
33
Type 1 Shutter Mount Directions
1. Remove the Adapter Mount Cover by removing the four Phillips head screws.
2. Place the Adapter Mount Body over the entrance slit.
3. Mount it by threading the Retainer to the spectrograph.
4. Replace the shutter and the Adapter Mount Cover.
Spectrograph
Type 2 Shutter Mount Directions
The second shutter mount type, used with all
Acton Research spectrographs, requires no
disassembly. Mount it to the spectrograph as
shown in Figure 17.
Adapter
Figure 17. Type 2 Entrance Slit Mount
Shutter Cable Connection
WARNING!
Dangerous live potentials are present at the Remote Shutter power connector. To avoid
shock hazard, the Controller power should be OFF when connecting or disconnecting a
remote shutter.
1. Verify that the ST-133A controller is turned OFF (or not connected)
2. Connect the shutter cable to the side of the camera.
3. Then connect the other end to either the Shutter Power connector on the camera or to
the Shutter Power connector on the ST-133A controller. In the case of TE cameras,
the shutter cable should be connected to the Shutter Power connector on the rear
panel of the camera or to the Shutter Power connector on the ST-133A Controller. In
many systems, cable length considerations will make it more convenient to connect
to the Shutter Power connector on the camera.
Note: Longer cables are available from the factory.
Overexposure Protection
Cameras that are exposed to room light or other continuous light sources will quickly
become saturated. This most often occurs when operating without a shutter. If the camera
is mounted to a spectrograph, close the entrance slit of the spectrograph completely to
reduce the incident light.
34
Version 1.C
Notes:
1. If the CCD is cooled to low temperatures (below -50°C), exposure to ambient light
will over-saturate it. This may increase dark charge significantly. If the camera
remains saturated after all light sources are removed, you may have to bring the
camera back to room temperature to restore dark charge to its original level.
2. Saturation is not harmful to a non-intensified camera.
Mounting a TE-Cooled VersArray Camera to a Microscope
Introduction
This section discusses the setup and optimization of your digital imaging system as
applied to microscopy.
Since scientific grade cooled CCD imaging systems are usually employed for low light
level microscopy, the major goal is to maximize the light throughput to the camera. In
order to do this, the highest Numerical Aperture (NA) objectives of the desired
magnification should be used. In addition, you should carefully consider the transmission
efficiency of the objective for the excitation and emission wavelengths of the fluorescent
probe employed. Another way to maximize the transmission of light is to choose the
camera port that uses the fewest optical surfaces in the pathway, since each surface
results in a small loss in light throughput. Often the trinocular mount on the upright
microscope and the bottom port on the inverted microscope provide the highest light
throughput. Check with the manufacturer of your microscope to determine the optimal
path for your experiment type.
A rule of thumb employed in live cell fluorescence microscopy is “if you can see the
fluorescence by eye, then the illumination intensity is too high”. While this may not be
universally applicable, it is a reasonable goal to aim for. In doing this, the properties of the
CCD in your camera should also be considered in the design of your experiments. For
instance, if you have flexibility in choosing fluorescent probes, then you should take
advantage of the higher Quantum Efficiency (QE) of the CCD at longer wavelengths (QE
curves can be found on the Princeton Instruments camera data sheets). Another feature to
exploit is the high resolution offered by cameras with exceptionally small pixel sizes (data
available on the Princeton Instruments camera data sheets). Given that sufficient detail is
preserved, you can use 2x2 binning (or higher) to increase the light collected at each
“super-pixel” by a factor of 4 (or higher). This will allow the user to reduce exposure times,
increasing temporal resolution and reducing photodamage to the living specimen.
Another method to minimize photodamage to biological preparations is to synchronize a
shutter on the excitation pathway to the exposure period of the camera. This will limit
exposure of the sample to the potentially damaging effects of the excitation light.
Mounting the Camera on the Microscope
The camera is connected to the microscope via a standard type mount coupled to a
microscope specific adapter piece. There are two basic camera-mounting designs, the
F-mount (standard) and the C-mount (optional). The F-mount uses a tongue and groove
type mechanism to connect to the camera while the C-mount employs a standard size
thread to make the connection.
Chapter 3
System Setup
35
F-Mount
For a camera with the F-mount type design, you need two elements to mount the camera
on your microscope:
•
A Diagnostic Instruments Relay Lens. This lens is usually a 1x relay lens that
performs no magnification. Alternatively, you may use a 0.6x relay lens to partially
demagnify the image and to increase the field of view. There is also a 2x relay lens
available for additional magnification.
•
A Microscope-specific Diagnostic Instruments Bottom Clamp. Table 4 shows
which bottom clamps are routinely used with each of the microscope types. They are
illustrated in
•
Figure 19. If you feel that you have received the wrong type of clamp, or if you need a
clamp for a microscope other than those listed, please contact the factory.
To Mount the Camera:
1X
HRP 100-NIK
1. First, pick up the camera and look for the black dot
on the front surface.
2. Match this dot with the red dot on the side of the
relay lens.
3. Then engage the two surfaces and rotate them until
the F-mount is secured as evidenced by a soft
clicking sound.
4. Next place the long tube of the relay lens into the
bottom clamp for your microscope, securing it to
the relay lens with the three set screws at the top of
the clamp as shown in Figure 21.
5. This whole assembly can now be placed on the
microscope, using the appropriate setscrews on the
microscope to secure the bottom clamp to the
output port of the microscope.
6. The F-mount is appropriate for any trinocular
output port or any side port.
"L" bottom
clamp
Figure 18. Bottom Lamp
Secured to Relay Lens
•
When mounting the camera perpendicular to the microscope on the side port, it is
ADVISED that you provide some additional support for your camera to reduce
the possibility of vibrations or excessive stress on the F-mount nose.
•
Roper Scientific DOES NOT advise using an F-mount to secure the camera to a
bottom port of an inverted microscope due to possible failure of the locking
mechanism of the F-mount. Contact the factory for information about a special
adapter for operating in this configuration.
36
Version 1.C
C-Mount
For a camera equipped with a C-mount thread, use the standard C-mount adapter that is
supplied by the microscope manufacturer to attach the camera to the microscope.
1. Screw the adapter into the camera.
2. Secure the assembly to the microscope using the standard setscrews on the
microscope. The camera can be mounted on the trinocular output port, the side port
or the bottom port of the inverted microscope.
3. If you are mounting one of the LARGER cameras in the following orientations, it is
ADVISED that you provide additional support for the camera:
•
Perpendicular to the microscope, on the side port. Additional support
is advised to reduce vibrations or excessive stress on the C-mount nose.
•
At the bottom port of the inverted microscope. The C-mount is designed
to support the full weight of the camera. However, additional support is advisable
since the camera is in a position where it could be deflected by the operator’s
knee or foot. This kind of lateral force could damage the alignment of the nose
and result in sub-optimal imaging conditions.
4. If additional optical elements are required at an output port for image collection,
please check with your microscope manual to determine if the chosen output port
requires a relay lens.
5. Verify that all optical surfaces are free from dust and fingerprints, since these will
appear as blurry regions or spots and hence degrade the image quality.
Microscope Type
Diagnostic Instruments
Bottom Clamp Type
Leica DMR
L-clamp
Leitz All types
NLW-clamp
Nikon Optiphot, Diaphot, Eclipse
O-clamp
Olympus BH-2, B-MAX, IMT-2
V-clamp
Zeiss Axioscope, Axioplan, Axioplan 2,
Axiophot
Z-clamp
Zeiss Axiovert
ZN-clamp
Table 4. Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes
Chapter 3
System Setup
37
1X
HRP 100-NIK
L
ZN
O
NLW
Z
V
Figure 19. Diagnostic Instruments Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes
Adjusting the Parfocality of the Camera
After the camera has been mounted, verify that you get a clear, focused, transmitted light
image through the eyepiece. Then, divert the light to the camera and lower the
illuminating light intensity.
To adjust the parfocality on an F-mount system:
•
Begin collecting images with a short exposure time.
•
Focus the light on the camera by rotating the ring on the Diagnostic Instruments
relay lens without touching the main focusing knobs on the microscope.
To adjust the parfocality on a C-mount system:
On a C-mount system, the camera should be very close to parfocal, although some
C-mounts will be adjustable using setscrews on the microscope to secure the adapter
slightly higher or lower in position.
To focus a Camera with an F-mount Lens Adapter:
Focusing is normally done by means a focus adjustment on the relay-lens adapter.
Note: The camera lens mount itself also has a focus adjustment. Although it is unlikely
that you would ever need to use this adjustment in operation with a microscope (it is
preferable that you use the relay-lens focus adjustment), it could be used if necessary.
The procedure for using the adjustment is provided in Chapter 4, pages 56-55.
38
Version 1.C
Caution Microscope optics have very high transmission efficiencies in the infrared region of the
spectrum. Since typical microscope light sources are very good emitters in the infrared,
some microscopes are equipped with IR blockers or heat filters to prevent heating of
optical elements or the sample. For microscopes that do not have the better IR blockers,
the throughput of infrared light to the CCD can be fairly high. In addition, while the eye
is unable to see the light, CCD cameras are particularly efficient in detecting infrared
wavelengths. As a result, the contaminating infrared light will cause a degradation of the
image quality due to a high background signal that will be invisible to the eye. Therefore,
it is recommended that you add an IR blocker prior to the camera if you encounter this
problem with the microscope.
WARNING!
Before You Start, if your system includes a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp, it is
CRITICAL to turn off all electronics adjacent to the arc lamp, especially your digital
camera system and your computer hardware (monitors included) before turning on the
lamp power.
Powering up a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp causes a large EMF spike to be
produced that can cause damage to electronics that are running in the vicinity of the lamp.
We advise that you place a clear warning sign on the power button of your arc lamp
reminding all workers to follow this procedure. While Roper Scientific has taken great
care to isolate its sensitive circuitry from EMF sources, we cannot guarantee that this
protection will be sufficient for all EMF bursts. Therefore, in order to fully guarantee the
performance of your system, you must follow this startup procedure.
Installing the Controller
The Model ST-133A is a compact, high performance CCD Camera Controller for
operation with Princeton Instruments brand* cameras. Designed for high speed and high
performance image acquisition, the ST-133A offers data transfer at speeds up to 1
megapixel per second, standard video output for focusing and alignment and a wide
selection of A/D converters to meet a variety of different speed and resolution
requirements. For more information about the controller, refer to "ST-133A Controller",
page 83.
1. Verify that the controller voltage and fuse selections are correct for your location.
See page 25.
2. Before connecting or disconnecting computer-controller cables, make sure that the
computer and the controller are both turned OFF.
3. Install the PCI card in the host computer if it has not already been installed. Refer to
page 26.
4. Secure the cable ends of the 9-pin serial Controller to Computer Interface cable
(typically PN 6050-0148) to the controller at the Serial Com connector and to the
* The ST-133A controller must be factory configured for operation with an LN-cooled camera.
For this reason, a controller purchased for operation with an LN-cooled camera can only be used
with an LN-cooled camera. Similarly, a controller purchased for operation with a TE-cooled
camera can not be used with an LN-cooled camera.
Chapter 3
System Setup
39
connector on the interface card installed in your computer. Use the screws or the
slide-latch locks provided.
5. Secure the ends of the Camera-Controller cable to the controller at the Detector
connector and to the camera at the Controller connector. The 25-pin Camera
connector (type DB25), the cable, and the corresponding connector on the camera are
configured so that the cable cannot be installed incorrectly. Note that this cable is
secured by a slide-lock mechanism at the end that connects to the controller. The
other end will be secured by screws or by a slide-lock as required by the camera. To
ensure reliable operation, it is essential that both ends of the cable connector be
secured before powering the controller.
6. Always turn the power off at the Controller before connecting or disconnecting a
cable that interconnects the camera and controller or serious damage to the CCD may
result. This damage is NOT covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
7. Connect the AC powercord to the controller (and later to the AC power source).
8. Leave the controller OFF at this time. For more information about connectors and
other features of the ST-133A Controller, refer to Chapter 7, System Component
Descriptions, ST-133A Controller (beginning on page 83) and to Chapter 8, TTL
Control.
Attaching/Connecting Shutters
Internal Shutters
WARNING!
Disconnecting or connecting the shutter cable to the camera while the controller is on can
destroy the shutter or the shutter driver in the controller!
A camera will have an internal shutter if ordered by the user.
•
TE-cooled Cameras: C-mount cameras use a 25 mm internal shutter that is housed
in the main body. F-mount cameras use a 35 mm shutter that is housed in an
additional front section of the camera. Cameras with the 35 mm internal shutter must
be controlled by an ST-133A Controller with the 70 Volt Option.
•
LN-cooled Cameras: The 40 mm internal shutter is housed in the nose section of the
camera. To accommodate the shutter, a deeper nose housing is used, with a resulting
increase in the focal plane distance. The 70 Volt Option is not required by 40 mm
shutters.
The only case in which an internal shutter will not be supplied is when an TE-cooled
camera is configured for spectroscopic applications.
Note: Electromechanical shutters typically have a lifetime of about a million cycles.
Avoid running the shutter unnecessarily. Also avoid using shorter exposure times and
higher repetition rates than are required.
40
Version 1.C
Shutter Cable
The Shutter to Controller cable connects an external shutter to the Remote Lemo
connector on the rear of the controller. If the camera is equipped with an internal shutter,
then the Remote connector should not be used to drive an external (second) shutter. Such
a configuration will result in under-powering both shutters and may cause damage to the
system. If your application requires both an internal and an external shutter, refer to the
controller manual for the setup information.
WARNINGS
1. Dangerous live potentials are present at the Remote connector. To avoid shock
hazard, always turn the controller power OFF before connecting or disconnecting an
external shutter cable.
2. Disconnecting or connecting the shutter cable to the controller while the controller
power is ON can destroy the shutter or the shutter driver in the controller.
35 mm Shutter
F-mount field of view
As shown in Figure 20, TE cameras
(illuminated region of array)
having an F-mount nose use a 35
35 mm shutter coverage
mm opening shutter. This shutter
1340 x 1300 array
does not completely clear a large
array (for example, a 1340×1300
array with ~38 mm diagonal) and
the array is not fully illuminated.
dark area of array
This does not mean that the shutter
is too small. The F-mount lens
actually limits the field size ahead of
Figure 20. 35 mm Shutter Coverage on 1340×1300
the 35 mm shutter. The difficulty is
Array for F-mount Design
that the F-mount standard itself
does not provide sufficient coverage to completely illuminate the large array.
Note that a camera having the 35 mm shutter can only
be used with an ST-133A equipped with the 70 V
shutter option. An ST-133A that has the 70 V shutter
option can be identified by the 70 V OPT label on its
rear panel as shown in Figure 21.
SHUTTER CONTROL
70V
OPT.
4
REMOTE
SETTING
Figure 21. 70 V Shutter Option
Label
Shutter Setting Selection
The Shutter Setting dial is correctly set at the factory for
the camera’s internal shutter if one is present.
SHUTTER CONTROL
1. Verify that the Controller power is OFF.
2. Refer to Table 5 when looking at the rear of the
Controller. Verify that the correct shutter setting
has been selected for the shutter you are using.
-
5
+
REMOTE
SETTING
Figure 22. Shutter Setting for
Large Internal Shutter (40 mm)
3. If the setting is not correct, press the "-" or the
"+" button until the correct setting is displayed in the window.
Chapter 3
System Setup
Shutter Setting*
41
Shutter Type
1
25 mm Roper Scientific supplied External shutter
(typically an Entrance slit shutter)
2
25 mm Roper Scientific Internal shutter
4
35 mm Roper Scientific Internal shutter (requires 70 V
Shutter option)
5
40 mm Roper Scientific Internal shutter (supplied with
LN camera having a 1340 × 1300 or larger CCD)
* Shutter settings 0, 3, and 6-9 are unused and are reserved for future use.
Table 5. ST-133A Shutter Setting Selection
WARNING! An incorrect setting may cause the shutter to malfunction or be damaged. An ST-133A
with the 70 V Shutter option cannot be used with a camera having the 25 mm shutter or
the 40 mm shutter, even by selecting a different number, because the shutter could be
permanently damaged by the high drive voltage and larger stored energy required to drive
the 35 mm shutter. Note that the shutter is not covered by the warranty.
Overheating
Larger shutters do not normally exhibit thermal overloading, so they do not require the
thermal interlock used by small shutters.
Making the Coolant Circulator-Detector Connections
Caution
1. Do not use any coolant fittings other than those supplied by Roper Scientific.
Although standard pipefittings are similar, in most cases they are not the same.
Forcing these fittings into the cooling block will permanently damage the threads.
2. VersArray cameras with liquid-assisted cooling or liquid-only cooling require circulating
coolant (50:50 mixture of ethylene glycol and water) for proper operation.
3. Take care that the coolant used is pH neutral. Acidic or alkaline coolant can damage
the camera fittings and internal cooling block through corrosion. Such damage could
be very expensive to repair.
4. Coolant should be no colder than +15°C to prevent condensation at 50% relative
humidity. Operating a VersArray detector with coolant at a colder temperature could
cause induced condensation in the electronics enclosure and possible catastrophic
damage to the detector. Damage resulting from this type of operation may void the
warranty.
1. Set up the coolant circulator according to the directions in the user manual for that
equipment. Do not apply power to the circulator until directed to do so.
2. Make the hose connections between the circulator and the detector. For best cooling
performance, the tubing should be no longer than necessary. Connection directions
are provided for two tubing sizes. Follow the directions appropriate to your camera.
42
Version 1.C
a. 1/4" Connections: Use 1/4", thin-wall plastic tubing. Be sure the tubing is
properly secured at both ends. Note that the ports on this camera use a ferrule-less
quick-disconnect method of securing the tubing and that both the camera's valve
body and the fitting insert include automatic shutoff to prevent coolant leaks when
disconnected.
To Secure the Tubing:
For best cooling, connect the inflow and outflow tubing to the ports as indicated in
Figure 23.
1) Remove the retaining nuts for the fitting and slide them over the outside of
the plastic tubing.
2) Slide the tubing over the barb on the fitting.
3) Slide the retaining nuts to the end of the tubing and tighten them to the
threads of the fitting.
4) Insert the fitting into the appropriate valve body (Inlet or Outlet) until you hear a
click.
5) Then insert the fitting at the other end of the tubing into the appropriate port on
the coolant circulator. You should hear a click, which indicates that the fitting
is latched in place.
6) Because of the automatic shutoffs, disconnecting the coolant supply is done
by simply depressing the release tabs (Figure 23) and removing the fittings.
Reconnecting the supply is done by reinserting each fitting into the
appropriate valve body until you hear a click.
b. 3/8" Connections: Use 3/8" I.D., thick-wall PVC tubing. Hose clamps secure the
tubing to the male quick-disconnects.
To Secure the Tubing:
For best cooling, connect the inflow and outflow tubing to the ports as indicated in
Figure 23.
1) Insert the male quick-disconnect (on tubing) into the appropriate female
quick-disconnect on the camera (Inlet or Outlet) until you hear a click.
2) Then insert the fitting at the other end of the tubing into the appropriate port
on the coolant circulator. You should hear a click, which indicates that the
fitting is latched in place.
3) Because of the automatic shutoffs, disconnecting the coolant supply is done
by simply depressing the release tabs (Figure 23) and removing the fittings.
Reconnecting the supply is done by reinserting each fitting into the
appropriate valve body until you hear a click.
Chapter 3
System Setup
43
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
Fitting may be right-angle or
straight through
straight through
Either port can be
used as the Inlet.
INLET
Liquid-Assisted Cooling
OUTLET
Liquid-Only Cooling
Figure 23. Coolant Ports
Recommended Flow Rate and Fluid Pressure
Flow Rate: 2 liters/minute. Users are advised to install a flow meter to monitor the
rate.
Fluid Pressure: 25 psig (maximum).
110/220
Serial
Comm
Inlet
Coolant
Circulator
Outlet
110/220
Camera
Shutter
Detector
Serial
110/220
Shutter
ST-133A
Controller
Computer
EXPERIMENT
Figure 24. System Diagram: Air-Assist/Liquid-Assist TE Camera with Coolant Circulator
110/220
Coolant
Circulator
Shutter
Outlet
Camera
Serial
Comm
110/220
Inlet
Detector
Serial
Shutter
ST-133A
Controller
110/220
Computer
EXPERIMENT
Figure 25. System Diagram: Liquid-Cooled TE Camera with Coolant Circulator
44
Version 1.C
Setting up a CRYOTIGER Compressor
DANGER
FLAMMABLE GAS. AVOID IGNITION SOURCES. Liquid flammable refrigerant
collects in the camera's cryocooler during operation. Never disconnect the gas lines or
other components until the camera temperature reaches 10-30° C (50-86° F). Overpressure will occur if the liquid is confined. Cold gas or liquid trapped in the cryocooler
can reach high pressures as it warms and vent flammable gas through the camera's
pressure relief valve.
FLAMMABLE GAS. AVOID IGNITION SOURCES. Do not heat pressurized gas
lines or other gas-charged components. Prevent gas escape when connecting and
disconnecting gas lines. Work in a ventilated area.
AVOID GAS LEAKS. Check the condition of the gasket seal on the male half of each
gas coupling. Be sure the gasket seal is in place and the sealing surfaces on both the male
and female halves are clean before connecting.
DANGER
EXPLOSION HAZARD: A pressure relief valve is provided on the camera to prevent
an over-pressure condition if a leak of high-pressure refrigerant occurs within the vacuum
vessel in the camera. If the cryocooler is allowed to warm above operating temperature,
the active pumping material in the system will release gas to increase the pressure in the
vacuum vessel.
TOXIC GAS. The refrigerant is toxic. Carefully follow the initial setup instructions for
the pump. These instructions include checking the Tip-N-Tell sensor, checking the
pressure gauge, removing shipping bolts, and applying the SUPPLY (red) and RETURN
(green) labels to the gas lines.
WARNING!
1. Use two wrenches when connecting or disconnecting a gas line coupling to avoid
loosening the bulkhead coupling. Gas pressure can project the coupling with enough
force to cause injury.
2. Extreme cold hazard. Do not touch any frosted parts.
Caution 1. Avoid gas leaks. Keep the gas line couplings aligned when making or breaking a
coupling connection. Leaks can occur due to the weight of the gas line or due to a
sharp bend near the connection.
2. Operating the compressor without a camera connected will reduce the life of the
compressor and will void the warranty.
3. To prevent potential overheating and possible damage to the camera:
• Turn on the compressor before turning on the controller.
• Turn off the controller before turning off the compressor.
Chapter 3
System Setup
45
Summary of Initial Setup
Unpack the CRYOTIGER compressor and carefully read the CRYOTIGER operating
manual shipped with the unit. Then install the compressor and gas lines according to the
procedures in the CRYOTIGER manual. Those procedures take you through all of the
steps from unpacking, to positioning the compressor, to installing the gas lines. With
regard to the procedure for installing the cryocooler, skip the steps that refer to installing
the cryocooler into a vacuum housing (the cryocooler has already been installed into the
camera) and follow the remaining steps that refer to making the gas line connections.
Verify that all couplings are free from dirt and debris. Use two wrenches when
Caution connecting/disconnecting gas lines to avoid loosening a bulkhead coupling. When
connecting the gas lines to the compressor and the camera, TORQUE ALL COUPLINGS
TO 14-16 N·m (10-12 lb.ft.). Tighten each coupling before continuing to the next one.
Note: A 5/8" and a 3/4" open-end wrenches may be included with the CRYOTIGER
system. These wrench sizes are required when installing the gas lines.
The following information summarizes the steps required to unpack and setup the
CRYOTIGER compressor and camera. It is only provided to give you an idea of what you
will need to do. It is NOT a substitute for the setup procedures provided in the
CRYOTIGER operating manual shipped with the compressor.
1. Make there are no sources of flame nearby. Compressor gas is flammable.
2. Confirm that the location selected for the compressor has an ambient temperature
always within the range of 10-35° C (50-95° F) and has a maximum relative
humidity of 80%.
3. Check pressure indicator on back of compressor. The pressure should be 275 psig
(within +5/-25 psig tolerance).
4. Using a 10 mm box wrench, remove three (3) shipping bolts from bottom of
CRYOTIGER compressor. Avoid tilting the compressor more than 30 degrees
in order to remove the bolts.
5. Check the Tip-N-Tell indicator on the shipping container. If the indicator is
BLUE, the compressor was tipped beyond allowable limits. This means you must
let the compressor sit for a minimum of four (4) hours for the oil to settle.
6. Position the compressor within 10 degrees of level and allow at least 160 mm
(6") clearance from the rear and left side of the compressor for unrestricted
airflow.
7. Route the gas lines before connecting. Provide gas line supports so the allowable
1.5m (5 feet) unsupported length is not exceeded. Make sure that the minimum
bend radius (76 mm/12") will not be exceeded.
8. Apply labels to the gas lines.
9. Remove and store dust caps from the couplings on one end of the Return and
Supply gas lines. Check for dust and debris. If dirty, clean with methanol or
ethanol and air dry.
46
Version 1.C
10. Using two wrenches (5/8" and 3/4"), connect the gas lines at the compressor end.
Red label is for Supply, Green label is for Return. Torque couplings to
14-16 N·m (10-12 lb.ft.). Refer to Figure 26.
TURN
HOLD
GAS COUPLING
COMPRESSOR COUPLING
Figure 26. Connect Gas Line to Compressor or Camera
11. Repeat the previous step at the camera. Be sure to match the label colors on the
gas lines with those on the camera ports. Figure 27 provides a diagram of a
CRYOTIGER-cooled system layout.
110/220
Supply: Red
Return: Green
375 p.s.i.
Relief
Valve
Serial
Comm
Computer
Shutter
110/220
Flexible
Gaslines
Cryocooler
(Cold End)
110/220
Detector
Serial
Camera
Controller
AIRFLOW
Supply
AIRFLOW
Shutter
Return
CRYOTIGER®
EXPERIMENT
Figure 27. Imaging System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera
Chapter 4
Operation
Introduction
Dark current is significantly reduced in VersArray camera systems through deep cooling
of the CCD arrays. You can choose from either thermoelectric or cryogenic options to
best match your application requirements and environment:
ATTENTION
•
Thermoelectric (TE) cooling: Cooling by this method uses a multi-stage Peltier
cooler in combination with either air- or coolant-circulation. To prevent condensation
and contamination from occurring, cameras cooled this way can either be evacuated
or nitrogen backfilled. Cameras under vacuum reach lower temperatures; nitrogenbackfilled cameras are relatively maintenance free. The thermoelectric camera heads
feature cost-effective performance, ease of use, and cooling from +20°C to as low as
-60°C. Cooling performance depends on whether the array chamber is backfilled or
evacuated and whether the TE-cooling is air-assisted, liquid-assisted, or is liquid
cooled.
•
Liquid nitrogen (LN) cooling: Cooling by this method virtually eliminates
dark current through the containment of liquid nitrogen in a Dewar reservoir. The
use of thermal-radiation shielding and thermal-isolation mounts makes extremely
long integration times possible, in excess of 25 hours for a large-capacity Dewar
(1.7 liter). VersArray controllers provide stabilized temperature control of LN
heads from -70 to -120°C (-70°C to -110°C for large arrays).
•
CRYOTIGER cooling: Cooling by this method is a custom option for some
VersArray camera models. The CRYOTIGER is a self-contained cooling system
that provides cryogenic cooling using the Joule-Thomson effect to cool the CCD.
The CRYOTIGER gives you liquid-nitrogen-type performance in an easy-touse, maintenance-free package.
With an LN-cooled detector, it is generally good practice to turn on the controller and
start at least one data collection while the detector is cooling down, and then to keep the
controller in operation for the entire time the Dewar contains liquid nitrogen. This will
establish and maintain the “keep cleans” mode of the controller so that, even when the
CCD is not actively taking data, it will be continuously cleaning (shifting charge on the
array to clear dark charge and cosmic ray artifacts).
Once the VersArray detector has been installed as explained in the preceding chapters,
operation of the detector is basically straightforward. In most applications you simply
establish optimum performance using the Focus mode (in WinView/32 or WinSpec/32,
for example), set the target detector temperature, wait until the temperature has stabilized,
and then do actual data acquisition in the Acquire mode. Additional considerations
regarding experiment setup and equipment configuration are addressed in the software
47
48
Version 1.C
manual. Refer to "First Light" section in this chapter for step-by-step procedures for
initial data acquisition.
Thermoelectric Cooling
Introduction
As stated before, cameras in the VersArray family can be either thermoelectrically- or
cryogenically-cooled. TE cooling is enhanced by providing a fan (air-assist) to remove heat,
providing a fan and circulating water/coolant (liquid-assist), or circulating chilled
water/coolant (liquid-cooled). Of the three approaches for TE-cooled cameras, liquid-cooled
provides the greatest temperature reduction. Cryogenic cooling (as implemented in the LNcooled cameras and the CRYOTIGER-cooled cameras) provides even deeper cooling.
Generally speaking, the lower the array temperature, the better the signal. By cooling the
array, dark current contribution to signal is reduced and sensitivity is increased.
TE Air-Assisted
VersArray cameras designed for TE-cooled operation and have three distinct sections to
support this type of cooling. The front vacuum enclosure contains the CCD array seated
on a cold finger, with an attached thermal sensing diode to monitor its temperature. The
cold finger is seated on a multi-stage Peltier thermoelectric cooler, driven by closed-loop
proportional-control circuitry. The back enclosure contains the heat exchanger that is
cooled by an internal fan. Air is drawn in from the rear most vents on the side of the
camera and is exhausted through the front most side vents.
Caution
The VersArray TE-cooled camera requires the ST-133A Controller that has been shipped
with it. Do not use the ST-133A Controller with LN- or CRYOTIGER-cooled Princeton
Instruments cameras.
Note: Temperature regulation does not reach its ultimate stability for at least 30 minutes
after temperature lock is established.
TE Liquid-Assist
TE-cooled cameras with liquid-assisted cooling differ from the air-assist TE-cooled
cameras in that they rely on both an internal fan and liquid circulating through the heat
exchanger to remove heat. Air is drawn in from the rear most vents on the side of the
camera and is exhausted through the front most side vents. The coolant (which enters and
exits on the same side of the camera) removes additional heat. Either port can be the inlet
or outlet.
WARNINGS Do not use any coolant fittings other than those supplied by Roper Scientific. Although
standard pipe fittings are similar, in most cases they are not the same. Forcing these
fittings into the aluminum block will permanently damage the threads.
Take care that the coolant used is pH neutral. Acidic or alkaline coolant can damage the
camera fittings and internal cooling block through corrosion. Such damage could be very
expensive to repair.
Chapter 4
Operation
49
TE Liquid-Cooled
TE-cooled cameras that are liquid-cooled rely only on chilled coolant circulating through
the heat exchanger. The coolant flow through this exchanger differs from the flow
through the liquid-assisted camera's exchanger in that the coolant ports are on opposite
sides of the camera and the inlet and outlet ports are not interchangeable.
LN Cooling
ATTENTION It is generally good practice to turn on the controller and start at least one data collection
while the camera is cooling down, and then to keep the controller in operation for the
entire time the Dewar contains LN2. This will establish and maintain the “keep cleans”
mode of the controller so that, even when the CCD is not actively taking data, it will be
continuously cleaning (shifting charge on the array to clear dark charge and cosmic ray
artifacts).
Introduction
LN-cooled cameras use liquid nitrogen to reduce
the temperature of the CCD. The liquid nitrogen
is stored in a Dewar that is enclosed in a vacuum
jacket for minimal external thermal losses. The
chip temperature is regulated by closed-loop
proportional control circuitry. A thermal sensing
diode attached to the cooling block of the camera
monitors the chip temperature. The range
depends on the CCD device (see Table 6).
CCD Model
Approx. Range
512F
-70°C to -120°C
1300B/F
-70°C to -110°C
2048B/F
-70°C to -110°C
Table 6. Approximate Temperature
Range vs. CCD
Caution LN-cooled CCDs, because of their low operating temperatures, must always be
connected to an operating controller. If the controller power is turned off with liquid
nitrogen remaining in the Dewar, the CCD will quickly become saturated with charge,
which cannot be readily removed without warming the camera to room temperature.
Holding Times
At its lowest operating temperature, Princeton Instrument’s large capacity Dewar
(1.7 liters) has a hold time of 25 hours or more in an upright position. However, the hold
time will vary depending on the Dewar orientation, array size, and operating temperature.
To maximize the holding time when leaving the camera overnight, in addition to topping
off the Dewar, you will want to set the array temperature to its lowest operating
temperature ( -120° C or -110°C, depending on the array size) via the Detector
Temperature panel in the WinView software. You must leave the controller power on to
prevent potential damage due to excessively cold temperatures. The effect of setting the
array temperature to its lowest operating temperature is to reduce the heating of the array
and thereby minimize LN evaporation. The following day, reset the camera temperature
to the array's operating temperature.
50
Version 1.C
Filling the Dewar
DANGER
1. Even minimal contact with LN can cause severe injury to eyes and skin. Avoid
contact with the splashing that will invariably accompany pouring LN into a room
temperature Dewar.
2. Always be careful when removing the LN port cap if there is LN present in the
Dewar. Pressure due to nitrogen gas can cause the cap to fly out when the retaining
nut is loosened, possibly spraying you with liquid LN, which can cause severe injury.
1. After the camera has been properly evacuated,
loosen the retaining nut (Figure 28) a few turns,
then remove the LN Dewar port cap by pulling it
straight out.
Dewar port cap
Retaining nut
Pressure
relief valves
2. It is recommended that an LN transfer Dewar with a
pouring spout be used to transfer LN from the
storage tank to the camera. If you are going to use a
funnel, place a thin vent tube into the Dewar through
the funnel to reduce splashing due to boiling LN.
3. Pour approximately 100 ml of LN into the Dewar.
Stop for 5-10 minutes until you observe a “geyserFigure 28. Dewar Ports and Valves
like” vapor burst from the Dewar opening. This
burst is normal and has to do with reaching a
thermal equilibrium between the LN and the
Dewar container surfaces.
1. Fill up the Dewar (approximately 1.7 liters for standard Dewar or 0.75 liters for an
all-directional Dewar). To test the LN level, insert a straight piece of wire (a
cryogenic “dip stick”) into the Dewar briefly, then remove it. The LN level will be
indicated by the condensation on the wire.
2. Once the Dewar has been filled, replace the filler cap and hand-tighten the retaining
nut by giving it about 3/4 turn (or more) beyond the point where the nut feels snug.
WARNING!
Ice buildup may occur at the valve ports if the camera is being operated under high
humidity conditions. If frost appears on the valves, periodically clean the outside of the
valves so that ice does not prevent the valves from venting normally.
3. Once a temperature of -80°C has been achieved, maintain the CCD at that
temperature for 2-3 hours, then reset the dial to the desired temperature. This
procedure prevents any residual water vapor (if introduced during shipment or
through erroneous pumping in your lab, e.g., if your trap is inefficient) from
condensing on the CCD window.
If the Dewar is continuously refilled, this procedure is unnecessary and the dial can
be set at the desired temperature without the intermediate -80°C stage.
Note: The pressure relief valves (Figure 28) underneath the protective covering will
occasionally emit a plume of N2 gas and mist. Continuous hissing indicates that the
vacuum in the Dewar jacket is probably inadequate. In this case, first remove all LN from
the Dewar, then reconnect the camera to the vacuum pump.
Chapter 4
Operation
51
The cooler status indicator will turn from orange to green to indicate that the temperature
is thermostated to within ±0.050°C. For an LN-cooled CCD to reach -100°C normally
requires 45-55 minutes.
Note: Temperature regulation does not reach its ultimate stability for at least 30 minutes
after the green indicator LED has turned on. After this period of time the desired
temperature is maintained with great precision.
TAXI cable
(Serial Com)
Camera
110/220
Detector
Serial
110/220
Shutter
Controller
Computer
EXPERIMENT
Figure 29. System Diagram: LN-cooled Camera
Dewar Options
All-directional Dewar
Also available is the “all-directional” Dewar. An all-directional Dewar can operate in any
angular orientation but hold only about approximately 0.75 liters, roughly half as much
LN as the side-looking and end-looking Dewars. This reduced capacity translates to half
the hold time as well.
Note: There is no simple way to verify whether you have been shipped an all-directional
system simply by observing the camera. If you are uncertain, check the shipping
paperwork to verify that your Dewar is an all-directional model.
For operation of the all-directional Dewar in a 90° orientation you can refill the Dewar
only through a special 90° funnel provided by Roper Scientific. For operation at greater
than 90° angles, there is only one refilling choice: the Dewar must be returned to a 0°
(upright) orientation for refilling.
52
Version 1.C
CRYOTIGER Cooling
Introduction
CRYOTIGER cooling is achieved by the circulation of a CRYOTIGER proprietary
refrigerant through the cryocooler inside the camera. High-pressure refrigerant is
supplied from the compressor via the Supply line to the cryocooler. In the cryocooler,
the compressed refrigerant expands and cools the cold tip and the array to cryogenic
temperatures. (Array temperatures in the region of -90°C to -120° C are achievable.) The
low-pressure refrigerant is then returned via the Return line to the compressor where it is
compressed, cooled, cleaned, and then supplied to the cryocooler.
One advantage to CRYOTIGER-cooling is that the camera can be mounted in any
orientation. However, system components must be arranged so the gas lines are
protected from stress and traffic. Minimum bend radius restrictions for flexible gas lines
must be followed and gas line supports must be used to ensure that the allowable
supported length is not exceeded.
Refer to the CRYOTIGER manual shipped with your system for bend radius and
allowable supported length information.
Warnings and Cautions
DANGER
FLAMMABLE GAS. AVOID IGNITION SOURCES. Liquid flammable refrigerant
collects in the camera's cryocooler during operation. Never disconnect the gas lines or
other components until the camera temperature reaches 10-30° C (50-86° F). Overpressure will occur if the liquid is confined. Cold gas or liquid trapped in the cryocooler
can reach high pressures as it warms and vent flammable gas through the camera's
pressure relief valve.
FLAMMABLE GAS. AVOID IGNITION SOURCES. Do not heat pressurized gas
lines or other gas-charged components. Prevent gas escape when connecting and
disconnecting gas lines. Work in a ventilated area.
AVOID GAS LEAKS. Check the condition of the gasket seal on the male half of each
gas coupling. Be sure the gasket seal is in place and the sealing surfaces on both the male
and female halves are clean before connecting.
EXPLOSION HAZARD: A pressure relief valve is provided on the camera to prevent
an over-pressure condition if a leak of high-pressure refrigerant occurs within the vacuum
vessel in the camera. If the cryocooler is allowed to warm above operating temperature,
the active pumping material in the system will release gas to increase the pressure in the
vacuum vessel.
TOXIC GAS. The refrigerant is toxic. Carefully follow the initial setup instructions for
the pump. These instructions include checking the Tip-N-Tell sensor, checking the
pressure gauge, removing shipping bolts, and applying the SUPPLY (red) and RETURN
(green) labels to the gas lines.
Chapter 4
WARNING!
Operation
53
1. Use two wrenches when connecting or disconnecting a gas line coupling to avoid
loosening the bulkhead coupling. Gas pressure can project the coupling with enough
force to cause injury.
2. Extreme cold hazard. Do not touch any frosted parts.
Caution 1. Avoid gas leaks. Keep the gas line couplings aligned when making or breaking a
coupling connection. Leaks can occur due to the weight of the gas line or due to a
sharp bend near the connection.
2. Operating the compressor without a camera connected will reduce the life of the
compressor and will void the warranty.
3. To prevent potential overheating and possible damage to the camera:
• Turn on the compressor before turning on the controller.
• Turn off the controller before turning off the compressor.
Operation and Maintenance
A general startup and operation sequence follows. The ON/OFF sequence for system
components is intended to prevent potential overheating and possible damage to the
camera.
1. Verify that the gas lines have been connected between the compressor and the
camera and that the gas lines are properly supported.
2. Verify that the voltage selector is set to the proper voltage for your location.
3. Connect the compressor's powercord to the rear of the compress and connect the
other end to a suitable power receptacle.
4. Switch the compressor's circuit breaker (on the front) to the start position.
5. Verify that the charge pressure is correct by checking the pressure gauge and
correct for ambient temperature.
6. Turn on the camera controller.
7. Run the WinView/32 software where you can then set the operating temperature
for the camera temperature.
8. Enter the hardware setup information and define the experiment setup. Refer to
the software user's manual.
9. Run the experiment and store the data.
10. Turn off the controller.
11. Turn off the compressor.
54
PRESSURE (PSIG)
300
10
12.8
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE (C)
18.3
21.1
23.9
15.6
275
275
250
250
225
225
200
200
175
50
55
Version 1.C
60
65
70
75
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE (F)
26.7
29.4
32.2
35
80
85
90
95
Figure 30. Charge Pressure vs. Ambient Temperature
Refer to the CRYOTIGER Compressor manual and your software manual for further
information about operating and maintaining a CRYOTIGER-cooled system.
110/220
Supply: Red
Return: Green
375 p.s.i.
Relief
Valve
Serial
Comm
Computer
Shutter
110/220
Flexible
Gaslines
Cryocooler
(Cold End)
110/220
Detector
Serial
Camera
Controller
AIRFLOW
Supply
AIRFLOW
Shutter
Return
CRYOTIGER®
EXPERIMENT
Figure 31. System Diagram: CRYOTIGER-cooled Camera
Chapter 4
Operation
55
Setting the Operating Temperature
When WinView or WinSpec is the controlling
software, temperature control is done via the
Camera Temperature dialog box (see Figure
32) accessed from the Setup menu. Once the
target array temperature has been set, the
software controls the camera's cooling circuits
to reach set array temperature. On reaching
that temperature, the control loop locks to that
Figure 32. WinView Detector Temperature
temperature for stable and reproducible
dialog box
performance. When temperature lock has been
reached (temperature within 0.05°C of set value) the green TEMP LOCK indicator on
the Analog/Control module panel lights and the Camera Temperature dialog box reports
that the current temperature is "Locked". The on-screen indication allows easy
verification of temperature lock in experiments where the computer and controller are
widely separated. There is also provision for reading out the actual temperature at the
computer so that the progress of the cooldown can be monitored.
The time required to achieve lock can vary over a considerable range, depending on such
factors as the camera type, CCD array type, type of cooling, etc. Once lock occurs, it’s
okay to begin focusing. However, you should wait an additional twenty minutes before
taking quantitative data so that the system has time to achieve optimum thermal stability.
Baseline Signal
With the camera completely blocked, the CCD will collect a dark charge pattern,
dependent on the exposure time and camera temperature. The longer the exposure time
and the warmer the camera, the larger this background will appear.
Note: Do not be concerned about either the DC level of this background or its shape
unless it is very high (i.e., > 1000 counts for LN-cooled or CRYOTIGER-cooled or > 200
counts for TE-cooled). What you see is not noise. It is a fully subtractable readout
pattern. Each CCD has its own dark charge pattern, unique to that particular device.
Every device has been thoroughly tested to ensure its compliance with Roper Scientific's
demanding specifications.
Caution If you observe a sudden change in the baseline signal you may have excessive humidity
in the camera vacuum enclosure. Turn off the controller (if LN-cooled, remove the liquid
nitrogen also) and contact the factory.
56
Version 1.C
F-Mount Adapter Focusing Procedure
Note: This procedure sets the focus for the F-mount adapter, not the lens. Once set, it
should not need to be disturbed again.
1. The lens should be mounted to the camera as described in Chapter 3.
2. The F-mount adapter is in two sections: the adapter body (into which the lens is
mounted) and the adapter adjustment ring that is secured to the front of the camera.
Try rotating the adapter body. If it doesn’t rotate, you will have to loosen the securing
setscrew(s) in the side of the adapter adjustment ring. To change the focus setting,
proceed as follows.
•
Loosen the setscrew(s) with a 0.050″ hex
key*. Do not remove the screw(s); loosen just
enough to allow the adapter body to be
adjusted.
•
Set the lens focus adjustment to the target
distance.
3. Block off the lens and set it to the smallest
possible aperture (largest F-stop number).
4. Mount a suitable target at a known distance in
front of the lens. Typically, a photo resolution
chart is used. However, even a page of small print
will generally serve quite well for this purpose.
Figure 33. F-mount Adjustment
5. Verify that all cables and connectors are secured.
6. Turn on the system and start the WinView/32 software.
7. Set the software to the FreeRun and Asynchronous modes (consult the software
manual if you are unfamiliar with these modes). Choose a fast exposure (.1 msec)
and begin data collection by selecting Focus.
8. Slowly uncover the lens. If the image becomes washed out, recover the lens, choose a
shorter exposure, and uncover the lens again. If it is too dark, choose a longer
exposure.
9. Double check to be sure the lens focus is set to the target distance and readjust if
necessary.
10. Taking care not to disturb the lens focus, rotate the adapter body for maximum
sharpness in the observed image and tighten the setscrews to secure the adapter
body's position.
This completes the procedure for adjusting the F-mount adapter. It should not be
necessary to disturb the adjustment again. In actual measurements with real subjects, the
focusing will be done entirely with the lens focus adjustment. Microscope adapters follow
a similar procedure except, in this case, the front part of the lens mount should not need
adjustment. See Chapter 3 for additional information.
*
The screws are #4-40 setscrews. A 0.050″ hex key is required to loosen or tighten them.
Chapter 4
Operation
57
Lens Focusing Procedure
Except for the lens mount focus procedure that applies to F-mount lenses as described
above, there is no difference between focusing considerations for an F-mount lens and a
C-mount lens. Simply use the focusing ring on the lens to produce the sharpest image at
full aperture. Then stop the lens down to its sharpest aperture (probably at a mid-range
aperture setting) and adjust the Exposure Time for the best possible image as observed at
the monitor. In microscopy applications, it will also be necessary to review the
discussions in Mounting a TE-Cooled VersArray Camera to a Microscope, page 34.
Field of View
When used for two-dimensional imaging
applications, Princeton Instruments CCD
cameras closely imitate a standard 35 mm
camera. Since the CCD is not the same size
as the film plane of a 35 mm camera, the field
of view at a given distance is somewhat
O
different.
D = distance between the object and the CCD
B = 46.5 mm (Nikon bayonet only), 17.5 for
C-mount
F = focal length of lens
S = horizontal or vertical dimension of CCD
O = horizontal or vertical field of view
covered at a distance D
M = magnification
CCD
Object
Lens
S
B
D
CCD
Object
Lens
Princeton Instruments, Inc
S
O
B
D
CCD
The field of view is:
Object
Lens
S
O
B
D
Figure 34. Imaging Field of View
58
Version 1.C
Setting the Camera Gain
Typical choices for gain are 0.5x, 1x, and 2x. The method for
changing a camera's analog gain depends on the type of camera.
• Gain for an LN-cooled VersArray camera is via a gain
control switch on the side of the electronics enclosure (see
switch positions in Figure 35).
• Gain for TE-cooled cameras with a gain switch on the side
is selected via that switch.
• Gain for TE-cooled cameras with a gain control switch on
the rear panel is set in the application software (for
example, on the Experiment Setup tab card in the
WinView/32 software). The gain switch setting is
overridden by the software selection.
Note: For some cameras, gain may not be selectable. In those
cases, gain settings will not be accessible in the software.
.5X
1X
2X
Figure 35. LN-cooled
Camera Gain Switch
Settings
The gain of the camera should generally be set so that the overall
noise is ~1 count RMS. In most instances this will occur with the
gain setting at 1x. In situations where the A/D range exceeds that of the array, it will
generally be better to set the Gain to 2x so that the signal can be spread over as much of
the A/D range as possible. Users who consistently measure low-level signals may wish to
select 2x, which reduces some sources of noise. Users who measure high-level signals
may wish to select .5x to allow digitization of larger signals. This is a particularly
important consideration in absorbance measurements. Customized values of gain can be
provided. Contact the factory for additional information.
Operation
Once the VersArray camera has been installed and its optics adjusted, camera operation is
basically straightforward. In most applications you simply establish optimum
performance using the Focus mode (WinView/32) and then do actual data acquisition in
the Acquire mode. Additional considerations regarding experiment setup and
equipment configuration are addressed in the software manual. Refer to the appropriate
"First Light" section for step-by-step procedures for initial data acquisition for imaging
and spectroscopic applications.
Chapter 4
Operation
59
First Light (Imaging)
This section provides step-by-step instructions for acquiring an imaging measurement for
the first time. The intent of this procedure is to help you gain basic familiarity with the
operation of your system and to show that it is functioning properly. Once basic familiarity
has been established, then operation with other operating configurations, ones with more
complex timing modes, can be performed.
Assumptions
The following procedure assumes that
1.
2.
You have already set up your system in accordance with the instructions in
Chapter 3.
You have read the previous sections of this chapter.
3.
You are familiar with the application software.
4.
The system is air-cooled, (If your system is designed for liquid-assisted TEcooled, liquid-cooled TE, LN-cooled operation, or CRYOTIGER, be sure to
read Thermoelectric Cooling, LN Cooling, or CRYOTIGER Cooling section,
starting on page 48, before proceeding.)
5.
The system is being operated in imaging mode.
6.
The target is a sharp image, text, or a drawing that can be used to verify that the
camera is "seeing" and can be used to maximize focus.
Warnings
WARNING
Before You Start, if your system includes a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp, it is
CRITICAL to turn off all electronics adjacent to the arc lamp, especially your digital
camera system and your computer hardware (monitors included) before turning on the
lamp power.
Powering up a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp causes a large EMF spike to be
produced that can cause damage to electronics that are running in the vicinity of the lamp.
We advise that you place a clear warning sign on the power button of your arc lamp
reminding all workers to follow this procedure. While Roper Scientific has taken great
care to isolate its sensitive circuitry from EMF sources, we cannot guarantee that this
protection will be sufficient for all EMF bursts. Therefore, in order to fully guarantee the
performance of your system, you must follow this startup procedure.
Getting Started
1. Mount a test target in front of the camera.
2. Turn on the controller power.
Note: A camera overload alarm may sound briefly and then stop. This is normal
and is not a cause for concern. However, if the alarm sounds continuously, even
with no light entering the camera, something is wrong. Turn off the power and
contact the factory for guidance.
3. Turn on the computer power.
60
Version 1.C
4. Start the application software.
5. Start the coolant flow or fill the LN Dewar.
6. Block light from the lens.
Setting the Parameters
Note: The following procedure is based on WinView/32: you will need to modify it
if you are using a different application. Basic familiarity with the WinView/32
software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software
manual or have it available while performing this procedure.
Set the software parameters as follows:
Environment dialog (Setup|Environment): Verify that the DMA Buffer
size is 8 Mbytes (min.). Large arrays may require a larger buffer size. If you
change the buffer size, you will have to reboot the computer for this memory
allocation to be activated, and then restart WinView.
Controller|Camera tab page (Setup|Hardware): Controller and Detector
parameters should be set automatically to the proper values for your system.
However, you can click on the Load Defaults From Controller button on
this tab page to load the default settings.
•
Controller type: ST-133
•
Controller version: 3 or higher
•
Camera type: Select the array installed in your camera.
•
Shutter type: None, Large, or Remote (system dependent).
•
Readout mode: Full frame.
Detector Temperature (Setup|Detector Temperature…): -40°C for
air-cooled. When the array temperature reaches the set temperature, the green
Temp Lock LED on the rear of the ST-133A will light and there will be a
locked indication at the computer monitor. Note that some overshoot may
occur. This could cause temperature lock to be briefly lost and then quickly
re-established. If you are reading the actual temperature reported by the
application software, there may be a small difference between the set and
reported temperature when lock is established. This is normal and does not
indicate a system malfunction. Once lock is established, the temperature will
be stable to within ±0.05°C.
Interface tab page (Setup|Hardware): High Speed PCI (or PCI(Timer))
Cleans and Skips tab page (Setup|Hardware): Default
Experiment Setup Main tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
•
Exposure Time: 100 ms
•
Accumulations & Number of Images: 1
Experiment Setup ROI tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
Use this function to define the region of interest (ROI).
•
Imaging Mode: Selected
•
Clicking on Full loads the full size of the chip into the edit boxes.
Chapter 4
Operation
61
Experiment Setup Timing tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
•
Timing Mode: Free Run
•
Shutter Control: Normal
•
Safe Mode vs. Full Speed: Safe (Asynchronous)
Acquiring Data
1. If you are using WinView/32 and the computer monitor for focusing, select
Focus from the Acquisition menu. Successive images will be sent to the
monitor as quickly as they are acquired.
2. Adjust the lens aperture, intensity scaling, and focus for the best image as
viewed on the computer monitor. Some imaging tips follow:
•
Begin with the lens blocked off and then set the lens at the smallest
possible aperture (largest f-stop number).
•
Make sure there is a suitable target in front of the lens. An object with
text or graphics works best. If working with a microscope, use any easily
viewed specimen.
•
Adjust the intensity scaling and lens aperture until a suitable setting is
found. The initial intensity scaling setting of 4096 assures that the image
won’t be missed altogether but could be dim. Once you’ve determined
that the image is present, select a lower setting for better contrast. Check
the brightest regions of the image to determine if the A/D converter is at
full-scale. A 12-bit A/D is at full scale when the brightest parts of the
image reach an intensity of 4095. Adjust the aperture to where it is just
slightly smaller (higher f-stop) than the setting where maximum
brightness on any part of the image occurs.
•
Set the focus adjustment of the lens for maximum sharpness in the
viewed image.
•
In the case of a camera with an F-mount, the camera lens adapter itself
also has a focus adjustment. If necessary, this focus can be changed to
bring the image into range of the lens focus adjustment. See F-Mount
Adapter Focusing Procedure, page 56.
3. After you have focused the camera, you can stop Focus mode, continue
Focus mode, begin Acquire mode, or wait for the CCD to reach the
operating temperature before going to Acquire mode.
4. If the array is cooled by LN, empty the Dewar before turning off the
controller. If a coolant circulator, a chiller/circulator, or a CRYOTIGER unit
is being used to cool the array, stop the flow before turning off the controller.
Note: Exposing the CCD to bright light (10× saturation) when cold (<-70°C)
will cause the dark current in the exposed pixels to be 3 to 10 times higher
than normal for that operating temperature. This effect is due to the
formation of temporary traps. The effect can be reversed by allowing the
camera to warm up to room temperature.
62
Version 1.C
First Light (Spectroscopy)
The following paragraphs provide step-by-step instructions for placing your spectroscopy
system in operation the first time. The intent of this simple procedure is to help you gain
basic familiarity with the operation of your system and to show that it is functioning
properly. Once basic familiarity has been established, then operation with other operating
configurations, ones with more complex timing modes, can be performed. An underlying
assumption for the procedure is that the detector is to be operated with a spectrograph such
as the Acton SpectraPro™ 300i (SP300i) on which it has been properly installed. A suitable
light source, such as a mercury pen-ray lamp, should be mounted in front of the entrance
slit of the spectrograph. Any light source with line output can be used. Standard fluorescent
overhead lamps have good calibration lines as well. If there are no “line” sources available,
it is possible to use a broadband source such as tungsten for the alignment. If this is the
case, use a wavelength setting of 0.0 nm for alignment purposes.
Assumptions
The following procedure assumes that
1.
2.
You have already set up your system in accordance with the instructions in
Chapter 3.
You have read the previous sections of this chapter.
3.
You are familiar with the application software.
4.
The system is air-cooled. (If your system is designed for liquid-assisted TEcooled, liquid-cooled TE, LN-cooled operation, or CRYOTIGER, be sure to
read Thermoelectric Cooling, LN Cooling, or CRYOTIGER Cooling section,
starting on page 48, before proceeding.)
5.
6.
The system is being operated in spectroscopy mode.
An entrance slit shutter is not being controlled by the ST-133A.
Getting Started
1.
Set the spectrometer entrance slit width to minimum (10 µm if possible).
2.
Turn on the controller power.
Note: A detector overload alarm may sound briefly and then stop. This is normal
and is not a cause for concern. However, if the alarm sounds continuously, even
with no light entering the detector, something is wrong. Turn off the power and
contact the factory for guidance.
3.
Turn on the computer power.
4.
5.
Start the application software.
Start the coolant flow or fill the LN Dewar.
Setting the Parameters
Note: The following procedure is based on WinSpec/32: you will need to modify it
if you are using a different application. Basic familiarity with the WinSpec/32
software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software
manual or have it available while performing this procedure.
Chapter 4
Operation
63
Set the software parameters as follows:
Environment dialog (Setup|Environment): Verify that the DMA Buffer
size is 8 Mbytes (min.). Large arrays may require a larger buffer size. If you
change the buffer size, you will have to reboot the computer for this memory
allocation to be activated, and then restart WinSpec.
Controller|Camera tab page (Setup|Hardware): Controller and Detector
parameters should be set automatically to the proper values for your system.
However, you can click on the Load Defaults From Controller button on
this tab page to load the default settings.
•
Controller type: ST-133
•
Controller version: 3 or higher
•
Camera type: Select the array installed in your detector.
•
Shutter type: None or Remote.
•
Readout mode: Full frame.
Detector Temperature (Setup|Detector Temperature…): -40°C for
air-cooled. When the array temperature reaches the set temperature, the green
Temp Lock LED on the rear of the ST-133A will light and there will be a
locked indication at the computer monitor. Note that some overshoot may
occur. This could cause temperature lock to be briefly lost and then quickly
re-established. If you are reading the actual temperature reported by the
application software, there may be a small difference between the set and
reported temperature when lock is established. This is normal and does not
indicate a system malfunction. Once lock is established, the temperature will
be stable to within ±0.05°C.
Interface tab page (Setup|Hardware): High Speed PCI (or PCI(Timer))
Cleans and Skips tab page (Setup|Hardware): Default
Experiment Setup Main tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
•
Exposure Time: 100 ms
•
Accumulations & Number of Images: 1
Experiment Setup ROI tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
Use this function to define the region of interest (ROI).
•
Spectroscopy Mode: Selected
•
Clicking on Full loads the full size of the chip into the edit boxes.
Experiment Setup Timing tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):
•
Timing Mode: Free Run
•
Shutter Control: Normal
•
Safe Mode vs. Full Speed: Safe (Asynchronous)
Focusing
The mounting hardware provides two degrees of freedom, focus and rotation. In this
context, focus means to physically move the detector back and forth through the focal
plane of the spectrograph. The approach taken is to slowly move the detector in and out
64
Version 1.C
of focus and adjust for optimum while watching a live display on the monitor, followed
by rotating the detector and again adjusting for optimum. The following procedure, which
describes the focusing operation with an Acton 300I spectrograph, can be easily adapted
to other spectrographs.
1. Mount a light source such as a mercury pen-ray type in front of the entrance slit
of the spectrograph. Any light source with line output can be used. Standard
fluorescent overhead lamps have good calibration lines as well. If there are no
“line” sources available, it is possible to use a broadband source such as tungsten
for the alignment. If this is the case, use a wavelength setting of 0.0 nm for
alignment purposes.
2. With the spectrograph properly connected to the controller, turn the power on,
wait for the spectrograph to initialize. Then set it to 435.8 nm if using a mercury
lamp or to 0.0 nm if using a broadband source.
Hint: Overhead fluorescent lights produce a mercury spectrum. Use a white card
tilted at 45 degrees in front of the entrance slit to reflect overhead light into the
spectrograph. Select 435.833 as the spectral line.
3. Set the slit to 25 µm. If necessary, adjust the Exposure Time to maintain optimum
(near full-scale) signal intensity.
4. Slowly move the detector in and out of focus. You should see the spectral line go
from broad to narrow and back to broad. Leave the detector set for the narrowest
achievable line. You may want to use the Focus Helper function
(Process|Focus Helper…) to determine the narrowest line width: it can
automatically locate peaks and generate a report on peak characteristics during
live data acquisition (see the WinSpec/32 on-line help for more information).
Note that the way focusing is accomplished depends on the spectrograph, as
follows:
•
Long focal-length spectrographs such as the Acton 300i: The
mounting adapter includes a tube that slides inside another tube to move
the detector in or out as required to achieve optimum focus.
•
Short focal-length spectrographs: There is generally a focusing
mechanism on the spectrograph itself which, when adjusted, will move
the optics as required to achieve proper focus.
•
No focusing adjustment: If there is no focusing adjustment, either
provided by the spectrograph or by the mounting hardware, then the only
recourse will be to adjust the spectrograph’s focusing mirror.
5. Next adjust the rotation. You can do this by rotating the detector while watching
a live display of the line. The line will go from broad to narrow and back to
broad. Leave the detector rotation set for the narrowest achievable line.
Alternatively, take an image, display the horizontal and vertical cursor bars, and
compare the vertical bar to the line shape on the screen. Rotate the detector until
the line shape on the screen is parallel with the vertical bar.
Note: When aligning other accessories, such as fibers, lenses, optical fiber adapters,
first align the spectrograph to the slit. Then align the accessory without disturbing the
detector position. The procedure is identical to that used to focus the spectrograph
(i.e., do the focus and alignment operations while watching a live image).
Chapter 5
Timing Modes
The Princeton Instruments ST-133A Controller has been designed to allow the greatest
possible flexibility when synchronizing data collection with an experiment.
The chart below lists the timing mode combinations. Use this chart in combination with
the detailed descriptions in this chapter to determine the optimal timing configuration.
Mode
Shutter
Free Run
Normal
External Sync
Normal
External Sync
PreOpen
External Sync with Continuous Cleans
Normal
External Sync with Continuous Cleans
PreOpen
Table 7. Camera Timing Modes
Full Speed or Safe Mode
The WinView/32 Experiment Setup Timing tab page allows the user to choose Full
Speed (Synchronous) or Safe Mode (Asynchronous). Figure 36 is a flow chart
comparing the two modes. In Full Speed (Synchronous) operation, the ST-133A runs
according to the timing of the experiment, with no interruptions from the computer. In
Safe Mode operation, the computer processes each frame as it is received. The ST-133A
cannot collect the next frame until the previous frame has been completely processed.
Full Speed operation is primarily for collecting “real-time” sequences of experimental
data, where timing is critical and events cannot be missed. Once the ST-133A is sent the
Start Acquisition command (STARTACQ) by the computer, all frames are collected
without further intervention from the computer. The advantage of this timing mode is that
timing is controlled completely through hardware. A drawback to this mode is that the
computer will only display frames when it is not performing other tasks. Image display
has a lower priority, so the image on the screen may lag several images behind. A second
drawback is that a data overrun may occur if the number of images collected exceeds the
amount of allocated RAM or if the computer cannot keep up with the data rate.
Safe Mode operation is primarily useful for experiment setup, including alignment and
focusing, when it is necessary to have the most current image displayed on the screen. It
is also useful when data collection must be coordinated with external devices such as
external shutters and filter wheels. As seen in Figure 36, in Safe Mode operation, the
computer controls when each frame is taken. After each frame is received, the camera
sends the Stop Acquisition command to the camera, instructing it to stop acquisition.
Once that frame is completely processed and displayed, another Start Acquisition
65
66
Version 1.C
command is sent from the computer to the camera, allowing it to take the next frame.
Display is therefore, at most, only one frame behind the actual data collection.
One disadvantage of the Safe (Asynchronous) mode is that events may be missed during
the experiment, since the ST-133A is disabled for a short time after each frame.
Standard Timing Modes
The basic ST-133A timing modes are Free Run, External Sync, External Sync with
Continuous Cleans, and Internal Sync (available only if the ST-133A has a PTG
installed). These timing modes are combined with the Shutter options to provide the
widest variety of timing modes for precision experiment synchronization.
The shutter options available include Normal, PreOpen, Disable Opened or Disable
Closed. Disable simply means that the shutter will not operate during the experiment.
Disable closed is useful for making dark charge measurements, or when no shutter is
present in the controller. PreOpen, available in the External Sync and External Sync with
Continuous Cleans modes, opens the shutter as soon as the ST-133A is ready to receive
an External Sync pulse. This is required if the time between the External Sync pulse and
the event is less than a few milliseconds, the time it takes the shutter to open.
The shutter timing is shown in the timing diagrams that follow. Except for Free Run,
where the modes of shutter operation are identical, both Normal and PreOpen lines are
shown in the timing diagrams and flow chart.
The timing diagrams are labeled indicating the exposure time (texp), shutter compensation
time (tc), and readout time (tR). These parameters are discussed in more detail in
Chapter 6.
Chapter 5
Timing Modes
67
Safe Mode (Asynchronous)
Full Speed Mode (Synchronous)
Start
Start
Computer programs
camera with exposure
and binning parameters
Computer programs
camera with exposure
and binning parameters
STARTACQ issued from
computer to camera
STARTACQ issued from
computer to camera
Cleans performed
Cleans performed
1 frame collected
as per timing mode
1 frame collected
as per timing mode
STOPACQ issued from
computer to camera
Background or
flatfield on?
No
Yes
Background or
flatfield on?
Background and/or
flatfield correction
performed
No
Yes
Background and/or
flatfield correction
performed
Yes
Frames
complete?
No
During next acquisition
frames are displayed as
time permits
Frame displayed
Frames
complete?
No
STOPACQ issued from
computer to camera
Yes
Stop
Stop
Figure 36. Chart of Safe (async) and Full Speed Mode (sync) Operation
68
Version 1.C
Free Run
In the Free Run mode the controller does not synchronize with the experiment in any
way. The shutter opens as soon as the previous readout is complete, and remains open for
the exposure time, texp. Any External Sync signals are ignored. This mode is useful for
experiments with a constant light source, such as a CW laser or a DC lamp. Other
experiments that can utilize this mode are high repetition studies, where the number of
shots that occur during a single shutter cycle is so large that it appears to be continuous
illumination.
Shutter opens
Shutter remains open
for preprogrammed
exposure time
System waits while
shutter closes
Figure 37. Free Run Timing Chart,
Part of the Chart in Figure 36
Other experimental equipment can be synchronized to the ST-133A controller by using
the
signal. This TTL output for synchronous operation is shown in Figure 38.
Shutter
Open
Close
Open
Read
SCAN
tR
Data
First exposure stored
texp
Close
Open
Read
Close
Read
tc
Second
exposure
Data
stored
Third
exposure
Data
stored
Figure 38. Free Run Timing Diagram
External Sync
In this mode all exposures are synchronized to an external source. As shown in the flow
chart, Figure 39, this mode can be used in combination with Normal or PreOpen Shutter
operation. In Normal Shutter mode, the controller waits for an External Sync pulse, then
opens the shutter for the programmed exposure period. As soon as the exposure is
complete, the shutter closes and the CCD array is read out. The shutter requires
5-10 msec to open completely, depending on the model of shutter. (Shutter compensation
time is discussed in Chapter 6.)
Chapter 5
Timing Modes
69
Since the shutter requires up to 26 msec to fully open, the External Sync pulse provided
by the experiment must precede the actual signal by at least that much time. If not, the
shutter will not be open for the duration of the entire signal, or the signal may be missed
completely.
Also, since the amount of time from initialization of the experiment to the first External
Sync pulse is not fixed, an accurate background subtraction may not be possible for the
first readout. In multiple-shot experiments this is easily overcome by simply discarding
the first frame.
In the PreOpen Shutter mode, on the other hand, shutter operation is only partially
synchronized to the experiment. As soon as the controller is ready to collect data, the
shutter opens. Upon arrival of the first External Sync pulse at the ST-133A, the shutter
remains open for the specified exposure period, closes, and the CCD is read out. As soon
as readout is complete, the shutter reopens and waits for the next frame.
(shutter preopen)
(shutter normal)
Shutter opens
Controller waits for
External Sync pulse
Controller waits for
External Sync pulse
Shutter opens
for preprogrammed
exposure time
System waits while
shutter closes
Figure 39. Chart Showing Two External Sync Timing Options
The PreOpen mode is useful in cases where an External Sync pulse cannot be provided
5-26 msec before the actual signal occurs. Its main drawback is that the CCD is exposed
to any ambient light while the shutter is open between frames. If this ambient light is
constant, and the triggers occur at regular intervals, this background can also be
subtracted, providing that it does not saturate the CCD. As with the Normal Shutter
mode, accurate background subtraction may not be possible for the first frame.
Also note that, in addition to signal from ambient light, dark charge accumulates during
the “wait” time (tw). Any variation in the external sync frequency also affects the amount
of dark charge, even if light is not falling on the CCD during this time.
Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret
this as a second sync pulse, and so on.
70
Shutter (Normal)
Shutter (Preopen)
Open
Open
SCAN
Close
Close
Open
Open
Read
Version 1.C
Close
Open
Open
Close
Close
Close
Read
Read
External Sync
(negative polarity shown)
tw1
tc
texp
First wait
and exposure
tR
Data
stored
Second wait
and exposure
Data
stored
Third wait
and exposure
Data
stored
Figure 40. Timing Diagram for External Sync Mode
External Sync with Continuous Cleans Timing
Another timing mode available with the ST-133A camera is called Continuous Cleans. In
addition to the standard “cleaning” of the array, which occurs after the controller is
enabled, Continuous Cleans will remove any charge from the array until the moment the
External Sync pulse is received.
(shutter preopen)
(shutter normal)
Shutter opens
CCD is continuously
cleaned until External Sync
pulse is received
CCD is continuously
cleaned until External Sync
pulse is received
Shutter opens
for preprogrammed
exposure time
System waits while
shutter closes
Figure 41. Continuous Cleans Flowchart
Once the External Sync pulse is received, cleaning of the array stops as soon as the
current row is shifted, and frame collection begins. With Normal Shutter operation the
shutter is opened for the set exposure time. With PreOpen Shutter operation the shutter is
open during the continuous cleaning, and once the External Sync pulse is received the
shutter remains open for the set exposure time, then closes. If the vertical rows are shifted
midway when the External Sync pulse arrives, the pulse is saved until the row shifting is
Chapter 5
Timing Modes
71
completed, to prevent the CCD from getting “out of step.” As expected, the response
latency is on the order of one vertical shift time, from 1-30 µsec depending on the array.
This latency does not prevent the incoming signal from being detected, since photo
generated electrons are still collected over the entire active area. However, if the signal
arrival is coincident with the vertical shifting, image smearing of up to one pixel is
possible. The amount of smearing is a function of the signal duration compared to the
single vertical shift time.
Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret
this as a second sync pulse, and so on.
Open
Shutter (Normal)
Shutter (Preopen)
SCAN
Open
Cont.
Cleans
Close
Close
Open
Open
Close
Close
Cont.
Read Cleans
Read
Open
Open
Cont.
Cleans
External Sync
Figure 42. Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram
Close
Close
Read
Cont.
Cleans
72
Version 1.C
Chapter 6
Exposure and Readout
Introduction
Before each image from the CCD array appears on the computer screen, it must first be
read, digitized, and transferred to the computer. Figure 43 is a block diagram of the
image-signal path.
Incoming photons
Camera
Controller
Up/down integrator
CCD
Slow A/D
Fast A/D
Preamp
Digital processor
Video
display
Cable driver
HS serial interface
Computer
HS serial buffer board
Display
Storage
Figure 43. Block Diagram of Light Path in System
The remainder of this chapter describes the exposure, readout, and digitization of the
image. Included are descriptions of binning for imaging applications and the specialized
ST-133A timing modes.
Exposure
Charge coupled devices can be roughly thought of as a two-dimensional grid of
individual photodiodes (called pixels), each connected to its own charge storage “well.”
Each pixel senses the intensity of light falling on its collection area, and stores a
proportional amount of charge in its associated “well.” Once charge accumulates for the
specified exposure time, the pixels are read out serially.
CCD arrays perform three essential functions: photons are transduced to electrons,
integrated and stored, and finally read out. CCDs are very compact and rugged.
73
74
Version 1.C
Unintensified, uncoated CCDs can withstand direct exposure to relatively high light
levels, magnetic fields and RF radiation. They are easily cooled and can be precisely
thermostated to within a few tens of millidegrees.
Because CCD arrays, like film and other media, are always sensitive to light, light must not
be allowed to fall on the array during readout. Unintensified full-frame CCD cameras like the
VersArray cameras use a mechanical shutter to prevent light from reaching the CCD during
readout. ICCD (intensified) cameras use an image intensifier to gate the light on and off.
The software allows the user to set the length of time the camera is allowed to integrate the
incoming light. This is called the exposure time. During each scan, the shutter or intensifier
is enabled for the duration of the exposure period, allowing the pixels to register light.
Exposure with a Mechanical Shutter
For some CCD arrays, the ST-133A uses a mechanical shutter to control exposure of the
CCD. The diagram in Figure 44 shows how the exposure period is measured. The
output provided at the ST-133A Analog/Control panel can be used to monitor the
exposure and readout cycle (tR). This signal is also shown in Figure 44. The value of tc is
shutter type dependent, and will be configured automatically for ST-133A controllers
shipped with an internal shutter.
Mechanical Shutter
SCAN
Open
Closed
Acquire
texp
Exposure time
Readout
tc
Shutter compensation
Figure 44. Exposure of the CCD with Shutter Compensation
is low during readout and high during exposure and shutter compensation time.
Since most shutters behave like an iris, the opening and closing of the shutter will cause
the center of the CCD to be exposed slightly longer than the edges. It is important to
realize this physical limitation, particularly when using short exposures.
Continuous Exposure (No Shuttering)
For full-frame CCDs, the standard VersArray camera is equipped with an integral shutter.
However, inasmuch as it is possible to order the camera without a shutter, the following
general discussion of unshuttered operation is provided.
Unlike video rate CCD cameras, slow scan scientific cameras require a shutter to prevent
“smearing” of features during readout. This is because during readout, charge is moved
horizontally or vertically across the surface of the CCD. If light is falling on the CCD
during readout then charge will continue to accumulate, blurring the image along one
direction only.
For some experimental applications a shutter is not required because no light falls on the
or
CCD during readout. If the light source can be controlled electronically via the
SHUTTER MONITOR output, the CCD can be read out in darkness.
Chapter 6
75
Saturation
When signal levels in some part of the image are very high, charge generated in one pixel
may exceed the “well capacity” of the pixel, spilling over into adjacent pixels in a process
called “blooming.” In this case a more frequent readout is advisable, with signal
averaging to enhance S/N (Signal-to-Noise ratio) accomplished through the software.
For signal levels low enough to be readout-noise limited, longer exposure times, and
therefore longer signal accumulation in the CCD, will improve the S/N ratio approximately
linearly with the length of exposure time. There is, however, a maximum time limit for onchip accumulation, determined by either the saturation of the CCD by the signal or the loss
of dynamic range due to the buildup of dark charge in the pixels (see below).
Dark Charge
Dark charge (or dark current) is the thermally induced buildup of charge in the CCD over
time. The statistical noise associated with this charge is known as dark noise. Dark charge
values vary widely from one CCD array to another and are exponentially temperature
dependent. At the typical operating temperature of an RTE/CCD camera, for example,
dark charge is reduced by a factor of ~2 for every 6º reduction in temperature. In the case
of cameras such as the RTE/CCD-768-K and RTE/CCD-1317-K, which have MPP type
arrays, the average dark charge is extremely small. However, the dark-charge distribution
is such that a significant number of pixels may exhibit a much higher dark charge,
limiting the maximum practical exposure. Dark charge effect is more pronounced in the
case of cameras having a non-MPP array.
With the light into the camera completely blocked, the CCD will collect a dark charge
pattern, dependent on the exposure time and camera temperature. The longer the
exposure time and the warmer the camera, the larger and less uniform this background
will appear. Thus, to minimize dark-charge effects, you should operate with the lowest
CCD temperature possible.
Note: Do not be concerned about either the DC level of this background or its shape
unless it is very high, i.e., > 1000 counts with 16 bit A/D or 300 counts with a 12 bit A/D.
What you see is not noise. It is a fully subtractable readout pattern. Each CCD has its
own dark charge pattern, unique to that particular device. Simply acquire and save a dark
charge “background image” under conditions identical to those used to acquire the
“actual” image. Subtracting the background image from the actual image will
significantly reduce dark-charge effects.
Note: Offset and excess noise problems are more likely to occur if the controller and
camera weren’t calibrated and tested as a system at the factory.
Caution If you observe a sudden change in the baseline signal you may have excessive humidity
in the vacuum enclosure of the camera. See your detector manual for information on
having the detector vacuum repumped.
Array Readout
In this section, a simple 6 × 4 pixel CCD is used to demonstrate how charge is shifted and
digitized. As described below, two different types of readout are available. Full frame
readout, for full frame CCDs, reads out the entire CCD surface at the same time.
76
Version 1.C
Full Frame
The upper left drawing in Figure 45
represents a CCD after exposure but
before the beginning of readout.
The capital letters represent
different amounts of charge,
including both signal and dark
charge. This section explains
readout at full resolution, where
every pixel is digitized separately.
Readout of the CCD begins with the
simultaneous shifting of all pixels
one column toward the “shift
register,” in this case the column on
the far right. The shift register is a
single line of pixels along one side
of the CCD, not sensitive to light
and used for readout only. Typically
the shift register pixels hold twice
as much charge as the pixels in the
imaging area of the CCD.
1
A1
3
A1
B1
C1
D1
A1
B1
C1
D1
A2
B2
C2
D2
A2
B2
C2
D2
A3
B3
C3
D3
A3
B3
C3
D3
A4
B4
C4
D4
A4
B4
C4
D4
A5
B5
C5
D5
A5
B5
C5
D5
A6
B6
C6
D6
A6
B6
C6
D6
B1
C1 D1
C1
D1
A2
B2
C2
D2
A2
B2
C2
D2
A3
B3
C3
D3
A3
B3
C3
D3
A4
B4
C4
D4
A4
B4
C4
D4
A5
B5
C5
D5
A5
B5
C5
D5
A6
B6
C6
D6
A6
B6
C6
D6
2
B1
4
Readout of the CCD begins with the
simultaneous shifting of all pixels
Figure 45. Full Frame at Full Resolution
one column toward the “shift register,” in this case the column on the far right. The shift
register is a single line of pixels along one side of the CCD, not sensitive to light and
used for readout only. Typically the shift register pixels hold twice as much charge as the
pixels in the imaging area of the CCD.
After the first column is moved into the shift register, the charge now in the shift register
is shifted toward the output node, located at one end of the shift register. As each value is
“emptied” into this node it is digitized. Only after all pixels in the first column are
digitized is the second column moved into the shift register. The order of shifting in our
example is therefore D6, C6, B6, A6, D5, C5, B5, A5, D4....
After charge is shifted out of each pixel the remaining charge is zero, meaning that the
array is immediately ready for the next exposure.
Below are the equations that determine the rate at which the CCD is read out. Tables of
values for CCDs supported at the time of the printing of this manual also appear below.
Chapter 6
77
The time needed to take a full frame at full resolution is:
t R + texp + tc
(1)
where
tR is the CCD readout time,
texp is the exposure time, and
tc is the shutter compensation time.
The readout time is approximately given by:
[
]
t R = N x • N y (t sr + tv ) + (N x • ti )
(2)
where
Nx is the smaller dimension of the CCD
Ny is the larger dimension of the CCD
tsr is the time needed to shift one pixel out of the shift register
tv is the time needed to digitize a pixel
ti is the time needed to shift one line into the shift register
A subsection of the CCD can be read out at full resolution, sometimes dramatically
increasing the readout rate while retaining the highest resolution in the region of interest
(ROI). To approximate the readout rate of an ROI, in Equation 2 substitute the x and y
dimensions of the ROI in place of the dimensions of the full CCD. Some overhead time,
however, is required to read out and discard the unwanted pixels.
Binning
Binning is the process of adding the data from adjacent pixels together to form a single
pixel (sometimes called a super-pixel), and it can be accomplished in either hardware or
software. Rectangular groups of pixels of any size may be binned together, subject to
some hardware and software limitations.
Hardware Binning
Hardware binning is performed before the signal is read out by the preamplifier. For
signal levels that are readout noise limited this method improves S/N ratio linearly with
the number of pixels grouped together. For signals large enough to render the camera
photon shot noise limited, the S/N ratio improvement is roughly proportional to the
square-root of the number of pixels binned.
Figure 46 shows an example of 2 × 2 binning. Each pixel of the image displayed by the
software represents 4 pixels of the CCD array. Rectangular bins of any size are possible.
78
1
A1
B1
+ + +
A2
B2
Version 1.C
A1
B1
C1
+
+
+
D1
+
A2
B2
C2
D2
A1
B1
C1
D1
A3
B3
C3
D3
A2
B2
C2
D2
A4
B4
C4
D4
A3
B3
C3
D3
A5
B5
C5
D5
A4
B4
C4
D4
A6
B6
C6
D6
A5
B5
C5
D5
A6
B6
C6
D6
C1
D1
+
+
C2
D2
A3
B3
C3
D3
A3
B3
C3
D3
A4
B4
C4
D4
A4
B4
C4
D4
A5
B5
C5
D5
A5
B5
C5
D5
A6
B6
C6
D6
A6
B6
C6
D6
2
C1
D1
+ + +
C2
D2
3
4
Figure 46. 2 × 2 Binning
Binning also reduces readout time and the burden on computer memory, but at the
expense of resolution. Since shift register pixels typically hold only twice as much charge
as image pixels, the binning of large sections may result in saturation and “blooming”, or
spilling of charge back into the image area.
The readout rate for n × n binning is approximated using a more general version of the
full resolution equation. The modified equation is:
tR


=


Nx • N y •






t sr t v   
+   +  N x • ti 
n n 2   
(3)
Software Binning
One limitation of hardware binning is that the shift register pixels and the output node are
typically only 2-3 times the size of imaging pixels. Consequently, if the total charge binned
together exceeds the capacity of the shift register or output node, the data will be lost.
Chapter 6
79
This restriction strongly limits the number of pixels that may be binned in cases where there
is a small signal superimposed on a large background, such as signals with a large
fluorescence. Ideally, one would like to bin many pixels to increase the S/N ratio of the weak
peaks but this cannot be done because the fluorescence would quickly saturate the CCD.
The solution is to perform the binning in software. Limited hardware binning may be used
when reading out the CCD. Additional binning is accomplished in software, producing a
result that represents many more photons than was possible using hardware binning.
Software averaging can improve the S/N ratio by as much as the square-root of the
number of scans. Unfortunately, with a high number of scans, i.e., above 100, camera 1/f
noise may reduce the actual S/N ratio to slightly below this theoretical value. Also, if the
light source used is photon-flicker limited rather than photon shot-noise limited, this
theoretical signal improvement cannot be fully realized. Again, background subtraction
from the raw data is necessary.
This technique is also useful in high light level experiments, where the camera is again
photon shot-noise limited. Summing multiple pixels in software corresponds to collecting
more photons, and results in a better S/N ratio in the measurement.
Digitization
During readout, an analog signal representing the charge of each pixel (or binned group
of pixels) is digitized. The number of bits per pixel is based on both the hardware and the
settings programmed into the camera through the software. One A/D converter is
standard with the ST-133A. However, the ST-133A will support two A/D converters with
different software-selectable readout rates if the Dual A/D Converters option is ordered.
Dual A/D Converters Option
There is provision in the ST-133A Controller for two complete analog channels
optimized for two different A/D conversion rates. Because the readout noise of CCD
arrays increases with the readout rate, it is sometimes necessary to trade off readout speed
for high dynamic range. For the most common controller configurations, there will be a
1 MHz converter for the fastest possible data collection, and a 100 kHz or 50 kHz
converter for use where noise performance is the paramount concern. Switching between
the channels is completely under software control for total experiment automation.
80
Version 1.C
Chapter 7
System Component Descriptions
VersArray Camera
CCD Array: The VersArray camera system offers both front- and back-illuminated
CCDs in a variety of array sizes that allow you to precisely match the sensor to your
application. Only scientific-grade devices are used in order to ensure the higher image
fidelity, resolution, and acquisition flexibility required for scientific imaging. Roper
Scientific has developed exclusive large-area imaging CCDs with unmatched quantum
efficiency and low noise to offer the utmost in sensitivity. Large full wells, square pixels,
and 100% fill factors provide high dynamic range and excellent spatial resolution.
Unichrome (exclusive Roper Scientific technology) and other UV-enhancement coatings
can be used to further improve the quantum efficiency of these CCDs in the ultraviolet.
Fiberoptic Configuration: You can custom order a VersArray camera with a
fiberoptic bonded to the CCD. These fiberoptic cameras are ideal for lenseless direct
imaging of phosphor screens, MCPs, image intensifiers, and other Lambertian sources.
Roper Scientific uses a unique, patented process (US patent 5,134,680) to bond the fiber
directly to the CCD for maximum resolution and throughput. Imaging fiber bundles are
available in a range of demagnifications from 1:1 to 5:1. The input fiberoptic can be as
large as 165 mm in diameter. Do not hesitate to contact your Roper Scientific
representative for any custom requirement or refer to our VersArray™ models on our
website at www.roperscientific.com.
Internal Shutter: For TE- and LN-cooled cameras, the standard internal shutter has a
quartz shutter window to protect the shutter mechanism from external dust and humidity.
Since each window causes a small signal loss, an optional shutter assembly may be
available without the window: added caution must then be used in the handling and
storage of the camera. The standard shutter for a TE-cooled camera is the 35 mm shutter
(the ST-133A must be equipped with the 70 V shutter option) and for the LN-cooled
camera it is the 40 mm shutter.
Shutters are mechanical devices with a finite lifetime, typically of the order of a million
cycles, although some individual shutters may last a good deal longer. How long a shutter
lasts in terms of experimental time will, of course, be strongly dependent on the operating
parameters. High repetition rates and short exposure times will rapidly increase the
number of shutter cycles and hasten the time when the shutter will have to be replaced.
Cooling: Dark current is significantly reduced in VersArray camera systems through
deep cooling of the CCD arrays. You can choose from either thermoelectric or cryogenic
options to best match your application requirements and environment:
•
Thermoelectric cooling: Cooling by this method uses a four-stage Peltier
cooler in combination with either air- or coolant-circulation (liquid assist or
liquid only). To prevent condensation and contamination from occurring,
cameras cooled this way can either be evacuated or nitrogen backfilled. Cameras
81
82
Version 1.C
under vacuum reach lower temperatures; nitrogen-backfilled cameras are
relatively maintenance free. The thermoelectric camera heads feature costeffective performance, ease of use, and cooling from -40 to -60°C.
•
Liquid Nitrogen cooling: Cooling by this method virtually eliminates dark
current through the containment of liquid nitrogen in a Dewar reservoir. The use
of thermal-radiation shielding and thermal-isolation mounts makes extremely
long integration times possible, in excess of 25 hours for a large-capacity Dewar.
VersArray controllers provide stabilized temperature control of LN heads from
-70°C to -120°C (-70°C to -110°C for large arrays).
•
CRYOTIGER cooling: The CRYOTIGER is a self-contained cooling system
that provides cryogenic cooling using the Joule-Thomson effect to cool the CCD.
The CRYOTIGER gives you liquid-nitrogen-type performance in an easy-touse, maintenance-free package. VersArrayCT cameras use this method of cooling.
Connectors:
Controller: Power, control signals, and data are transmitted between the ST-133A and
the VersArray camera via the 25-pin D connector located on the rear of the detector. The
Detector-Controller cable is secured by a slide-lock mechanism. Controller power
must be OFF before connecting to or disconnecting from this connector.
Shutter: LEMO connector for driving an internal shutter. Controller power must be
OFF before connecting to or disconnecting from this connector.
Fan: (TE only) There may be a fan located inside the camera's back panel. Its purpose is:
• to remove heat from the Peltier device that cools the CCD array and
• to cool the electronics.
An internal Peltier device directly cools the cold finger on which the CCD is mounted.
The air drawn into the detector by the internal fan and exhausted through the back panel
then removes the heat produced by the Peltier device. The fan is always in operation and
air-cooling of both the Peltier and the internal electronics takes place continuously. The
fan is designed for low-vibration and does not adversely affect the image. For the fan to
function properly, free circulation must be maintained between the rear of the detector
and the laboratory atmosphere.
Coolant Ports: Thermoelectrically-cooled cameras are available with liquid-assisted or
liquid-only or liquid-cooled only cooling. Two coolant ports are provided on the sides of
these cameras. These quick-disconnect ports require 1/4" thin-wall plastic tubing or 3/8"
I.D. thick-wall PVC tubing, depending on the VersArray model. Instructions for setting
up coolant flow are provided on page 41.
Dewar: LN-cooled cameras are available in both the standard side-on and the end-on
configuration. The Dewar for the standard side-on holds 1.7 liters of liquid nitrogen (LN).
The Dewar for the end-on camera holds 2.2 liters of liquid nitrogen (LN). These
configurations can utilize the optional LN Autofill system (see Appendix C) for refilling
the Dewar.
An "all-directional" Dewar is also available from Roper Scientific. This Dewar can
operate in any angular orientation but holds about half as much LN as the standard Dewar
(~0.85 liters). This reduced capacity translates to roughly half the hold time, as well.
Chapter 7
83
Note: There is no simple way to determine if you have been shipped an all-directional
system simply by observing the detector. If you are uncertain, check the shipping paperwork
to verify that your Dewar is an all-directional model.
ST-133A Controller
Electronics: The ST-133A controller is a compact, high performance CCD Detector
Controller for operation with Princeton Instruments brand* detectors. Designed for high
speed and high performance image acquisition, the ST-133A offers data transfer at
speeds up to 1 megapixel per second, standard video output for focusing and alignment.
A variety of A/D converters are available to meet different speed and resolution
requirements.
In addition to containing the power supply, the controller contains the analog and digital
electronics, scan control and exposure timing hardware, and controller I/O connectors, all
mounted on user-accessible plug-in modules. This highly modularized design gives
flexibility and allows for convenient servicing.
POWER Switch and Indicator: The power switch,
located on the front panel as shown in Figure 47,
interrupts both sides of the controller’s AC power input.
The switch’s integral indicator LED lights whenever the
ST-133A Controller is powered. Note that, when the
power switch is actuated, there may be a few seconds
delay before the indicator lights. This is normal and in
no way indicative of a malfunction.
Rear Panel Connectors: There are three controller
board slots. Two are occupied by the plug-in cards that
provide various controller functions. The third,
covered with a blank panel, is reserved for future
development. The left-most plug-in card is the
Analog/Control module. Adjacent to it is the Interface
Control module. Both modules align with top and
bottom tracks and mate with a passive backplane via a
64-pin DIN connector. For proper operation, the
location of the modules should not be changed. Each
board is secured by two screws that also ground each
Figure 47. Controller Front Panel
module’s front panel. The connectors and functions
located on the rear panel are further are described on the following page. Removing and
inserting boards is described in Chapter 9, pages 100-101.
l
O
WARNING! To minimize the risk of equipment damage, a module should never be removed or
installed when the system is powered.
* The ST-133A controller must be factory configured for operation with an LN detector. For this
reason, a controller purchased for operation with an LN detector can only be used with an LN
detector. Similarly, a controller purchased for operation with a TE-cooled detector can not be used
with an LN detector.
84
Version 1.C
The Analog/Control Module, which should always be located in the left-most slot,
provides the following functions.
•
•
•
Pixel A/D conversion
CCD scan control
Exposure control
•
•
•
Timing and synchronization of readouts
Temperature control
Video output control
The Interface Control Module, which should always be located in the center slot,
provides the following functions.
•
•
TTL in/out Programmable Interface
High speed serial communications control
WARNING! Always turn the power off at the Controller before connecting or disconnecting any cable
that interconnects the camera and controller or serious damage to the CCD may result.
This damage is NOT covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Rear Panel Features:
The descriptions of the rear panel
connectors that follow are keyed to the
accompanying figure.
#
Feature
1
Temperature Lock LED: Indicates
that the temperature control loop has
locked and that the temperature of
the CCD array will be stable to
within ± 0.05°C.
2
3
4
5
Video Output: Composite video
output is provided at this connector.
The amplitude is 1 V pk-pk and the
source impedance is 75 Ω.
TTL In/Out: User-programmable
interface with eight input bits and
eight output bits that can be written to
or polled for additional control or
functionality. See Chapter 8.
External Sync Input: TTL input that
has a 10 kΩ pullup resistor. Allows
data acquisition and readout to be
synchronized with external events.
Through software, positive or negative
(default) triggering can be selected.
Output: WinView/32
(ver. 2.4 and higher) software
selectable NOTSCAN or SHUTTER
MONITOR signal. Default is
SHUTTER MONITOR.
1
2
11
3
4
5
SHUTTER CONTROL
6
12
7
REMOTE
8
SETTING
50-60Hz
FUSES:
LEFT:
RIGHT:
100 - 120V ~ 0.75A - T 2.50A - T
220 - 240 V ~ 0.30A - T 1.25 A - T
13
14
9
~
120Vac
15
10
10
Serial COM Connector: Provides two-way
serial communication between the controller
and the host computer.
11
Fan: Cools the controller electronics. Runs
continuously when the controller is turned on.
Chapter 7
#
Feature
#
85
Feature
6
Output: Initially HIGH.
Changes state on completion of
cleaning cycles before the first
exposure.
12
Shutter Setting Selector: Sets the shutter
hold voltage. Dial is correctly set at the
factory for the camera’s internal shutter if
one is present.
7
Zero Adjustment: Control the offset
values of the Fast (F) and Slow (S) A/D
converters. Preadjusted at factory.
13
Remote Shutter Connector: Provides
shutter-drive pulses for an external shutter. An
ST-133A with the 70 V shutter option is
required for a camera with the 35 mm shutter.
A 70 V OPT label will be next to the Remote
connector when this option is installed.
8
AUX Output: Reserved for future use.
14
Fuse/Voltage Label: Displays the
controller’s power and fuse requirements.
9
Detector Connector: Transmits
control information to the camera and
receives data back from the camera
via the Detector-Controller cable.
15
Power Module: Contains the powercord
socket and two fuses.
Cables
Detector-Controller: 1 MHz or 100kHz/1MHz systems. The standard 10' cable
(6050-0321) has DB25 connectors with slide-latch locking hardware. This cable
interconnects the Detector connector on the rear of the ST-133A with the 25-pin D
connector on the back of the VersArray camera. The Detector-Controller cable is
also available in 6', 15', 20', and 30' lengths. Note that a longer cable may degrade
camera performance.
TAXI: The standard 25' cable (6050-0148-CE) has DB9 Male connectors with
screw-down locking hardware. The TAXI (Serial communication) cable
interconnects the "Serial Com" connector on the rear of the ST-133A and the PCI
card installed in the host computer. This cable is also available in 10', 50', 100',
and 165' lengths.
Interface Card
PCI Card: The standard interface card plugs-into the host computer's motherboard
and provides the serial communication interface between the host computer and the
ST-133A. Through WinView/32, the card can be used in either High Speed PCI or
PCI(Timer) mode. High Speed PCI allows data transfer to be interrupt-driven and
can give higher performance in some situations. PCI(Timer) allows data transfer to
be controlled by a polling timer.
86
Version 1.C
Application Software
The Princeton Instruments WinView/32 software package provides comprehensive
image acquisition, display, processing, and archiving functions so you can perform
complete data acquisition and analysis without having to rely upon third-party
software. WinView/32 provides reliable control over all Roper Scientific cameras,
regardless of array format and architecture, via an exclusive universal
programming interface (PVCAM®). WinView/32 also features snap-ins and macro
record functions to permit easy user customization of any function or sequence.
PVCAM is the standard software interface for cooled CCD cameras from Roper
Scientific. It is a library of functions that can be used to control and acquire data
from the camera when a custom application is being written. For example, in the
case of Windows, PVCAM is a dynamic link library (DLL). Also, it should be
understood that PVCAM is solely for camera control and image acquisition, not for
image processing. PVCAM places acquired images into a buffer, where they can
then be manipulated using either custom written code or by extensions to other
commercially available image processing packages.
User Manuals
VersArray System User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use
the VersArray system components.
WinView/32 User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use the
application program. A PDF version of this manual is provided on the installation
CD. Additional information is available in the program's on-line help.
Chapter 8
TTL Control
Introduction
Princeton Instrument’s WinView/32 software package incorporates WinX32 Automation,
a programming language that can be used to automate performing a variety of data
acquisition and data processing functions, including use of the TTL IN/OUT functions.
WinX32 Automation can be implemented in programs written in Visual Basic. See the
WinX32 documentation for more detailed information.
The TTL lines are made available through the TTL IN/OUT connector on the rear of the
ST-133A Controller. This connector provides 8 TTL lines in, 8 TTL lines out and an input
control line. Figure 48 illustrates the connector and Table 9 lists the signal/pin
assignments.
TTL In
The user controls the 8 TTL Input lines, setting them high (+5 V; TTL 1) or low (0 V;
TTL 0). When the lines are read, the combination of highs and lows read defines a
decimal number which the computer can use to make a decision and initiate actions as
specified in the user’s program. If a TTL IN line is low, its numeric value is 0. If a TTL
IN line is high, its numeric value is as follows.
TTL IN
1
2
3
4
Value
1
2
4
8
TTL IN
5
6
7
8
Value
16
32
64
128
This coding allows any decimal value from 0 to 255 to be defined. Thus, as many as 256
different sets of conditions can be specified, at the user’s discretion, using the TTL IN
lines. Any unused lines will default to TTL high (+5 V). For example, to define the
number three, the user would simply set the lines TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 both high
(+5 V). It would be necessary to apply TTL low to the remaining six lines because they
would otherwise default to TTL high as well.
TTL IN
1
2
3
4
Value
High (1)
High (2)
Low (0)
Low (0)
TTL IN
5
6
7
8
Value
Low (0)
Low (0)
Low (0)
Low (0)
87
88
Version 1.C
Table 8 illustrates this coding for decimal values 0 through 7. Obviously this table could
easily be extended to show the coding for values all the way to 255.
Decimal
Equiv.
TTL
IN/OUT 8
1= dec 128
TTL
IN/OUT 7
1=dec 64
TTL
IN/OUT 6
1=dec 32
TTL
IN/OUT 5
1=dec 16
TTL
IN/OUT 4
1=dec 8
TTL
IN/OUT 3
1=dec 4
TTL
IN/OUT 2
1=dec 2
TTL
IN/OUT 1
1=dec 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
4
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
6
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
7
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
Table 8. Bit Values with Decimal Equivalents:
1 = High,
0 = Low
Buffered vs. Latched Inputs
In controlling the TTL IN lines, users also have the choice of two input-line states,
buffered or latched. In the buffered state, the line levels must remain at the intended
levels until they are read. With reference to the preceding example, the high level at TTL
IN 1 and TTL IN 2 would have to be maintained until the lines are read. In the latched
state, the applied levels continue to be available until read, even if they should change at
the TTL IN/OUT connector.
This control is accomplished using the EN/CLK TTL input (pin 6). If EN/CLK is open or
high, buffered operation is established and the levels reported to the macro will be those
in effect when the READ is made. With reference to our example, if pin 6 were left
unconnected or a TTL high applied, TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 would have to be held high
until read. If, on the other hand, EN/CLK were made to go low while TTL IN 1 and TTL
IN 2 were high, those values would be latched for as long as EN/CLK remained low.
The levels actually present at TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 could then change without
changing the value that would be read by software.
TTL Out
The state of the TTL OUT lines is set from WinView/32. Typically, a program
monitoring the experiment sets one or more of the TTL Outputs. Apparatus external to
the ST-133A interrogates the lines and, on detecting the specified logic levels, takes the
action appropriate to the detected condition. The coding is the same as for the input lines.
There are eight output lines, each of which can be set low (0) or high (1). The
combination of states defines a decimal number as previously described for the TTL IN
lines.
Chapter 8
TTL Control
Pin #
Assignment
Pin #
89
Assignment
1
IN 1
14
IN 2
2
IN 3
15
IN 4
3
IN 5
16
IN 6
4
IN 7
17
IN 8
5
GND
18
GND
6
EN/CLK
19
Reserved
7
(future use)
20
GND
8
GND
21
OUT 2
9
OUT 1
22
OUT 4
10
OUT 3
23
OUT 6
11
OUT 5
24
OUT 8
12
OUT 7
25
GND
13
Reserved
Table 9. TTL In/Out Connector Pinout
TTL Diagnostics Screen
Note that WinView/32 provides a TTL Diagnostics screen (located in WinView/32 under
Hardware Setup - Diagnostics) that can be used to test and analyze the TTL In/Out lines.
Hardware Interface
A cable will be needed to connect the TTL In/Out connector to the experiment. The
design will vary widely according to each user’s needs, but a standard 25-pin female type
D-subminiature connector will be needed to mate with the TTL In/Out connector at the
ST-133A. The hardware at the other end of the cable will depend entirely on the user’s
requirements. If the individual connections are made using coaxial cable for maximum
noise immunity (recommended), the center conductor of the coax should connect to the
proper signal pin and the cable shield should connect to the nearest available ground
(grounds are conveniently provided at pins 5, 8, 18 and 20). Connector hardware and
cables of many different types are widely available and can often be obtained locally,
such as at a nearby electronics store. A list of possibly useful items follows. Note that,
although the items listed may be appropriate in many situations, they might not meet your
specific needs.
•
25-pin female type D-subminiature solder type connector (Radio Shack® part no 2761548B).
•
RG/58U coaxial cable.
•
Shielded Metalized hood (Radio Shack part no 276-1536A).
•
BNC connector(s) type UG-88 Male BNC connector (Radio Shack part no 278-103).
90
Version 1.C
Example
Suppose you needed to build a cable to monitor the line TTL OUT 1. One approach
would be to build a cable assembly as described in the following paragraphs. This
procedure could easily be adapted to other situations.
1. Begin with a 25-pin female type D-subminiature solder type connector (Radio Shack
part no 276-1548B). This connector has 25 solder points open on the back.
2. Referring to Table 8, note that pin 8 = GND and pin 9 = TTL OUT 1.
3. Using coaxial cable type RG/58U (6 feet length), strip out the end and solder the
outer sheath to pin 8 (GND) and the inner line to pin 9 (TTL OUT 1). Then apply
shielding to the lines to insulate them.
4. Mount the connector in a Shielded Metalized hood (Radio Shack part no
276-1536A).
5. Build up the cable (you can use electrical tape) to where the strain relief clamp holds.
6. Connect a BNC connector (UG-88 Male BNC connector) to the free end of the cable
following the instructions supplied by Radio Shack on the box (Radio Shack part no
278-103).
7. To use this cable, connect the DB-25 to the TTL IN/OUT connector on the back of
the ST-133A controller.
8. To check the cable, start WinView/32 and open the TTL Diagnostics screen (located
in WinView under Hardware Setup - Diagnostics). Click the Write radio button.
Then click the Output Line 1 box. Next click the OK button to actually set TTL
OUT 1 high. Once you set the voltage, it stays until you send a new command.
9. Measure the voltage at the BNC connector with a standard voltmeter (red on the
central pin, black on the surrounding shielding). Before clicking OK at the TTL
Diagnostics screen you should read 0 V. After clicking OK you should read +5 V.
Note that adding a second length of coaxial cable and another BNC connector would be
straightforward. However, as you increase the number of lines to be monitored, it
becomes more convenient to consider using a multiple conductor shielded cable rather
than individual coaxial cables.
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
WARNING!
Do not attach or remove any cables while the camera system is powered on.
Introduction
The following issues have corresponding troubleshooting sections in this chapter.
Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes
Page 92
Camera Stops Working
Page 92
Changing the ST-133A Line Voltage and Fuses
Page 93
Controller Is Not Responding
Page 94
Cooling Troubleshooting
Page 95
Page 96
Error Occurs at Computer Powerup
Page 97
Excessive Readout Noise
Page 99
No Images
Page 99
Overexposed or Smeared Images
Page 100
Removing/Installing a Module
Page 100
Shutter Failure
Page 101
Vignetting: LN- or CRYOTIGER-cooled Cameras
Page 101
91
92
Version 1.C
Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes
A change in the baseline signal is normal if the temperature or gain setting has been
changed. If this occurs when the temperature or gain setting has not been changed,
contact Technical Support.
Camera Stops Working
Problems with the host computer system or software may have side effects that appear to
be hardware problems. If you are sure the problem is in the camera system hardware,
begin with these simple checks:
•
Turn off all AC power.
•
Verify that all cables are securely fastened and that all locking screws are in
place.
•
Check for a burned-out fuse in the Controller power module. For information
about changing a fuse, see " Changing the ST-133A's Line Voltage and Fuses”
on page 93.
•
Correct any apparent problems and turn the system on.
•
If you hear 2 clicks separated by 1 second (shutter opening then closing), the
shutter is working. Call Roper Scientific Customer Service for further
instructions.
If the system still does not respond, contact Roper Scientific Technical Support.
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
93
Changing the ST-133A Line Voltage and Fuses
The appropriate voltage setting for your country is set at the factory and can be seen on
the power input module. If your voltage source changes, you will need to change the
voltage setting and you may need to change the fuse configuration.
WARNING!
Use proper fuse values and types for the controller and camera to be properly protected.
To Change Voltage and Fuse Configuration:
WARNING!
Before opening the power input module, turn the Controller OFF and unplug
the line cord.
1. As shown in Figure 49, place the flat
side of a flat bladed screwdriver
parallel to the rear of the Controller
and behind the small tab at the top of
the power input module, and twist the
screwdriver slowly but firmly to pop
the module open.
50-60Hz
300 W MAX.
FUSES:
LEFT:
RIGHT:
100 - 120V ~ 0.75A - T 2.50A - T
220 - 240 V ~ 0.30A - T 1.25 A - T
Voltage
Ranges
Required
Fuses
50-60Hz
300 W MAX.
FUSES:
LEFT:
RIGHT:
100 - 120V ~ 0.75A - T 2.50A - T
220 - 240 V ~ 0.30A - T 1.25 A - T
Selector Drum
~
120Vac
Fuse Holders
2. To change the voltage setting, roll the
selector drum until the setting that is
closest to the actual line voltage is
facing outwards.
3. Confirm the fuse ratings by removing the
two white fuse holders. To do so, simply
insert the flat blade of the screwdriver
behind the front tab of each fuse holder
and gently pry the assembly out.
Figure 49. Power Input Module
Figure 50. Fuse Holder
4. After inspecting and if necessary, changing the fuses to those required by the selected
voltage, reinstall the holders with the arrow facing to the right.
5. Close the power input module and verify that the correct voltage setting is displayed.
6. Verify that the Controller power switch is in the OFF position and then plug the
powercord back into the power input module.
94
Version 1.C
Controller Is Not Responding
If this message pops up when you click on OK after selecting the "Interface Type" during
Hardware Setup (under the WinView/32 Setup menu), the system has not been able
to communicate with the Controller. Check to see if Controller has been turned ON and if
the interface card, its driver, and the interface cable have been installed.
•
If the Controller is ON, the problem may be with the interface card, its driver,
interrupt or address conflicts, or the cable connections.
•
If the interface card is not installed, close the application program (WinView/32
or WinSpec/32) and turn the Controller OFF. Follow the interface card
installation instructions in provided with your interface card and cable the card to
the SERIAL COM port on the rear of the Controller. Then do a "Custom"
installation of WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 with the appropriate interface
component selected: "PCI Interface" or "ISA Interface", depending on the
interface card type. Be sure to deselect the interface component that does not
apply to your system.
Note: WinView/32 and WinSpec/32 (versions 2.6.0 and higher) do not support the
ISA interface.
•
If the interface card is installed in the computer and is cabled to the SERIAL
COM port on the rear of the Controller, close the application program and turn
the Controller OFF. Check the cable connections and tighten the locking screws
if the connections are loose.
•
If the interface card was installed after the application program was installed,
close the application program and do a "Custom" installation of WinView/32 or
WinSpec/32 with the appropriate interface component selected: "PCI Interface"
or "ISA Interface", depending on the interface card type. Be sure to deselect the
interface component that does not apply to your system.
Note: WinView/32 and WinSpec/32 (versions 2.6.0 and higher) do not support the
ISA interface.
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
95
Cooling Troubleshooting
Temperature Lock Cannot be Achieved or Maintained.
CAUTION
Operating a VersArray liquid-cooled-only camera with coolant at a temperature colder
than specified could cause induced condensation in the electronics enclosure and possible
catastrophic damage to the camera. Damage resulting from this type of operation may
void the warranty.
Possible causes for not being able to achieve or maintain lock could include:
•
Ambient temperature greater than +23°C. This condition primarily affects the
TE-cooled cameras (air-assisted, liquid-assisted and liquid-cooled). If ambient is
greater than +23°C, you will need to cool the camera environment or raise the set
temperature.
•
Airflow through the camera is blocked.
•
The vacuum has deteriorated and needs to be refreshed.
•
The connectors of the cable that interconnects the controller and the camera need to
be secured.
•
The target array temperature is not appropriate for your particular camera and CCD array.
•
For cameras that are liquid-cooled or have liquid-assisted cooling, the coolant flow
rate may be insufficient due to a pinched coolant line, blockages, circulator power
problem, or pump failure. Check the flow rate and coolant temperature.
•
For a TE camera, the camera's internal temperature may be too high, such as might
occur if the operating environment is particularly warm or if you are attempting to
operate at a temperature colder than the specified limit. TE cameras are equipped
with a thermal-protection switch that shuts the cooler circuits down if the internal
temperature exceeds a preset limit. Typically, camera operation is restored
automatically in about ten minutes. Although the thermo-protection switch will
protect the camera, you are nevertheless advised to power down and correct the
operating conditions that caused the thermal-overload to occur.
Camera loses Temperature Lock
The internal temperature of the camera is too high. This might occur if the operating
environment is particularly warm or if you are trying to operate at a temperature colder
than the specified limit. If this happens, an internal thermal overload switch will disable
the cooler circuits to protect them. Typically, camera operation is restored in about ten
minutes. Although the thermal overload switch will protect the camera, users are advised
to power down and correct the operating conditions that caused the thermal overload to
occur. With some versions of the software, the indicated temperature when the camera is
in thermal overload (thermal switch is in the cut-out state) is -120° C.
Gradual Deterioration of Cooling Capability
With time, there may be a gradual deterioration of the camera’s vacuum. This can affect
temperature performance such that it may be impossible to achieve temperature lock at
the lowest temperatures. In the kind of applications for which cooled CCD cameras are so
96
Version 1.C
well suited, it is highly desirable to maintain the system’s lowest temperature
performance because lower temperatures result in lower thermal noise and better the
signal-to-noise ratio.
Vacuum deterioration occurs primarily as a result of material outgassing in the vacuum
chamber. Because outgassing normally diminishes with time, the rate of vacuum
deterioration in new cameras may be faster than in old ones. For example, a camera that
has to be repumped after perhaps a year of operation, may not have to be pumped again
for several years. In any case you may notice a gradual deterioration in temperature
control performance indicative of vacuum deterioration. If this happens, the camera will
have to be repumped. Contact the factory to make arrangements for returning the camera
to the support facility nearest to you to have the vacuum restored.
Problem
Compressor does not start when
the circuit breaker on the
compressor is closed.
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
No electrical power, defective
wiring, motor fault.
Check that the power source is on and the
powercord is connected. Contact Roper
Scientific.
Open fuse in the transformer
secondary circuit.
Check the fuse. Replace it if blown.
Compressor does not start; no
hum.
Wrong or defective wiring;
open overload protector
Check the wiring and fuses. Allow the
compressor to cool, then restart.
Compressor starts but shuts
down some time later.
Compressor is overheated;
temperature switch opened;
incorrect wiring; motor fault;
high equalization pressure;
blow fuse.
Restricted airflow. Clean the after-cooler fins
and air vents. Allow time for the compressor
to cool and the switch to close. Verify that the
compressor inlet and outlet air vents are
spaced at least 160 mm (6”) from another
object. Check the wiring. Check the pressure.
Contact Roper Scientific.
Fan(s) are not running. Check the fan circuit
fuses located in the fuse holder part of the
voltage selector. Replace the fuse if it is
blown.
Wrong voltage.
Recheck the voltage source. Recheck the
voltage selector setting.
Compressor component is
blocked.
Moisture on the cryocooler
inlet and outlet manifold or on
the upper vacuum enclosure.
Otherwise, the cooler
performance is normal.
High humidity in the room.
Lower the dew-point temperature or insulate
the gas lines.
Moisture on the cryocooler
upper vacuum enclosure.
Degraded cooler performance.
Heat exchanger thermal short.
Contact Roper Scientific for packing and
shipping instructions.
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
Problem
97
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
Moisture on the lower vacuum
enclosure.
Loss of vacuum.
Pump the vacuum enclosure to < 10 –4 Torr.
Increased cooldown time;
cannot attain desired
temperature; lack of capacity.
Low equalization gas pressure.
Loss of vacuum.
Check for vacuum leaks and repair. Pump to
< 10 –4 Torr.
Temperature cycles in the 250
to 275 K range.
Contamination is freezing in
the system.
Temperature is less than 200 K
but higher than the normal
operating range.
Vacuum leak.
Check the vacuum integrity. Pump the
vacuum enclosure to < 10 –4 Torr.
Thermal short.
Verify that any attachment to the cold tip does
not touch a warm surface.
Error Occurs at Computer Powerup
If an error occurs at boot up, either the Interface is not installed properly or there is an
address or interrupt conflict. Turn off the computer, try a new address or interrupt and
reinstall the card. Be sure the Interface is firmly mounted in the slot.
Caution Since interrupts and DMA channels cannot be shared, make sure no other boards in your
computer use this interrupt or these DMA channels.
Conflicts
One of the many advantages that PCI offers over ISA is that the whole issue of address and
interrupt assignments is user transparent and under BIOS control. As a result, users
typically do not have to be concerned about jumpers or switches when installing a PCI card.
Nothing more should be required than to plug in the card, make the connections, and
operate the system. As it turns out, however, in certain situations conflicts may nevertheless
occur and user intervention will be required to resolve them.
Typical PCI motherboards have both ISA and PCI slots and will have both PCI and ISA
cards installed. In the case of the ISA cards, the I/O address and Interrupt assignments
will have been made by the user and the BIOS will not know which addresses and
interrupts have been user assigned. When a PCI card is installed, the BIOS checks for
available addresses and interrupt levels and automatically assigns them so that there are
no PCI address or interrupt conflicts. However, because the BIOS doesn't know about the
user-assigned ISA I/O address and interrupt level assignments, it is possible that a PCI
card will be assigned an address or interrupt that is already assigned to an ISA card. If
this happens, improper operation will result. Specifically, the problems could range from
erratic operation under specific conditions to complete system failure. If such a conflict
occurs, because the user has no control over the PCI address and interrupt assignments,
there will be no recourse but to examine the ISA assignments and change them to values
that do not conflict. Most (but by no means all) ISA cards make provision for selecting
alternative I/O addresses and interrupt levels so that conflicts can be resolved. Software is
available to help identify specific conflicts.
98
Version 1.C
The following example may serve to illustrate the problem. Suppose you had a system
with an ISA network card, a PCI video card and an ISA sound card. Further suppose that
you were then going to install a PCI Serial Buffer card. Before installing the PCI Serial
card, the I/O address and interrupt assignments for the installed cards might be as
follows.
Slot Type
Status
I/O Address
Interrupt
1 (ISA)
ISA Network Card
200-210
11
2 (PCI)
PCI Video Card
FF00-FFFF
15
3 (ISA)
ISA Sound Card
300-304
9
4 (PCI)
Empty
N/A
N/A
Table 10. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments
before Installing Serial Card
As shown, there are no conflicts, allowing the three peripheral cards to operate properly.
If the PCI Serial card were then installed, the BIOS would interrogate the PCI cards and
may reassign them new address and interrupt values as follows.
Slot Type
Status
I/O Address(s)
Interrupt
1 (ISA)
ISA Network Card
200-210
11
2 (PCI)
PCI Video Card
FE00-FEFF
11
3 (ISA)
ISA Sound Card
300-304
9
4 (PCI)
Princeton Instruments PCI
Serial Card
FF80-FFFF
15
Table 11. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments
after Installing Serial Card
As indicated, there is now an interrupt conflict between the ISA Network Card and the
PCI Video card (both cards have been assigned Interrupt 11), causing the computer to no
longer function normally. This doesn't mean that the PCI Serial card is defective because
the computer stops functioning properly when the Serial card is installed. What it does
mean is that there is an interrupt conflict that can be resolved by changing the interrupt
level on the conflicting Network card in this example. It is up to the user to consult the
documentation for any ISA cards to determine how to make the necessary change.
Note: Changing the order of the PCI cards, that is, plugging them into different slots,
could change the address and interrupt assignments and possibly resolve the conflict.
However, this would be a trial and error process with no guarantee of success.
Diagnostics Software
Many diagnostics programs, both shareware and commercial, are available to help
resolve conflicts. Most often, all that's required is a program that will read and report the
address and interrupt assignments for each PCI device in the computer. One such
program available from Roper Scientific's Technical Support department is called
PCICHECK. When the program is run, it reports the address and interrupt assignments
for the first PCI device it finds. Each time the spacebar is pressed, it moves on to the next
one and reports the address and interrupt assignments for that one as well. In a few
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
99
moments this information can be obtained for every PCI device in the computer. Note
that, even though there are generally only three PCI slots, the number of PCI devices
reported may be larger because some PCI devices may be built onto the motherboard. A
good strategy for using the program would be to run it before installing the PCI Serial
card. Then run it again after installing the card and note any address or interrupt
assignments that may have changed. This will allow you to easily focus on the ones that
may be in conflict with address or interrupt assignments on ISA cards. It might be noted
that there are many programs, such as the MSD program supplied by Microsoft, that are
designed to read and report address and interrupt assignments, including those on ISA
cards. Many users have had mixed results at best using these programs.
Operation
There are no operating considerations that are unique to the PCI Serial card. The card can
easily accept data as fast as any Princeton Instruments system now available can send it.
The incoming data is temporarily stored in the card’s memory, and then transferred to the
main computer memory when the card gains access to the bus. The PCI bus arbitration
scheme assures that, as long as every PCI card conforms to the PCI guidelines, the onboard memory will never overflow.
Unfortunately, there are some PCI peripheral cards that do not fully conform to the PCI
guidelines and that take control of the bus for longer periods than the PCI specification
allows. Certain video cards (particularly those that use the S3 video chip) are notorious in
this respect. Usually you will be able to recognize when memory overflow occurs
because the displayed video will assume a split-screen appearance and/or the message
Hardware Conflict will be displayed (WinView/32). At the same time, the LED on the
upper edge of the PCI Serial card will light.
Users are thus advised not to take any actions that would worsen the possibility of
memory overflow occurring when taking data. In that regard, avoid multitasking while
taking data. Specific operations to avoid include multitasking (pressing ALT TAB or
ALT ESC to start another program), or running a screensaver program.
Excessive Readout Noise
Excessive readout noise with the intensifier off indicates possible moisture accumulation in
the CCD. This should be corrected promptly or permanent damage not covered by the
Warranty could occur.
Normal camera noise is a function of the gain setting and temperature as well as CCD type,
but is typically in the range of 1 ADU rms (6 ADU pk-pk). This is on top of offset that
typically is about 40 counts. Moisture accumulation produces a coarser noise with many
spikes ≥ 30 ADU. If these types of spikes occur, especially after the camera has been in use
for an extended period, turn off the system immediately. Have the unit serviced by Roper
Scientific or an authorized service facility of Roper Scientific.
No Images
See "Overexposed or Smeared Images", page 100.
100
Version 1.C
Overexposed or Smeared Images
If the camera has an internal shutter, check to see that the shutter is opening and closing
correctly. Possible shutter problems include complete failure, in which the shutter no
longer operates at all: the shutter may stick or open (causing overexposed or smeared
images) or stick closed (resulting in no images). It may even happen that one leaf of the
shutter will break and no longer actuate. High repetition rates and short exposure times
will rapidly increase the number of shutter cycles and hasten the time when the shutter
will have to be replaced.
Shutter replacement is usually done at the factory. If you find that the shutter on your
camera is malfunctioning, contact the factory to arrange for a shutter-replacement repair.
Shutters are not covered by the warranty.
Removing/Installing a Module
The ST-133A Controller has three plug-in slots. The Analog/Control module (leftmost
slot when the controller is viewed from the rear) and the Interface Control module
(middle slot) are always provided. The third slot, however, is always covered with a
blank panel unless a PTG module has been installed in an ST-133A Controller.
If a module is ever removed for any reason, internal settings should not be disturbed.
Changing a setting could radically alter the controller’s performance. Restoring normal
operation again without proper equipment and guidance would be very difficult, and it
might be necessary to return the unit to the factory for recalibration.
WARNING!
Always turn the Controller OFF before removing or installing a module. If a module is
removed or installed when the controller is powered, permanent equipment damage could
occur which would not be covered by the warranty.
Washer
Screw
Figure 51. Module Installation
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
101
To Remove a Module:
1. Verify that the Controller has been turned OFF.
2. Rotate the two locking screws (one at the top of the module and one at the
bottom) counterclockwise until they release from the chassis.
3. Then, grasp the module and pull it straight out.
To Install a Module:
Installing a module is a bit more complex because you first have to be sure the locking
screws are aligned correctly. The following procedure is suggested.
1. Rotate the two locking screws counterclockwise until the threads on the screws
engage those of the module panel. See Figure 51. By doing this, the screws will
be perfectly perpendicular to the module panel and will align perfectly when the
module is inserted.
2. Insert the module so that the top and bottom edges of the board are riding in the
proper guides.
3. Gently but firmly push the module in until the 64-pin DIN connector at the back
of the module mates with the corresponding connector on the backplane, leaving
the module panel resting against the controller back panel.
4. Rotate the two locking screws clockwise. As the screws are rotated, they will
first disengage from the module panel threads, and then begin to engage those of
the bracket behind the controller panel.
WARNING! Always turn the Controller OFF before removing or installing a module. If a module is
removed or installed when the controller is powered, permanent equipment damage could
occur which would not be covered by the warranty.
Shutter Failure
See "Overexposed or Smeared Images", page 100.
Vignetting: LN- or CRYOTIGER-cooled Cameras
All CCD arrays have been tested for uniformity and do not exhibit any unusual vignetting
(reduction of response) at the extreme ends of the array. If you do measure such reduction
in response across the array, it may be the result of one or more of the following
conditions:
•
Condensation of water on the edges of the array window has occurred. This should
not happen unless the cooling/pumping instructions, previously mentioned, were not
followed or if the Dewar has sprung a leak (a rare situation).
The arrays are held with a special mask that has been designed to minimize reflection and
stray light. These masks were designed to allow light rays to enter through the Dewar
window even at very wide angles (> f/1.5). If vignetting is observed, it is possible that
your experiment exceeds these angular constraints. Roper Scientific measures the array
response with a collimated uniform light source to prevent such false bias results.
102
Version 1.C
Appendix A
Specifications
Window
SI-UV fused-silica quartz
CCD Arrays
EEV (Marconi) CCD77-00: 512x512B/F, MPP, 24 x 24µm pixels, TE/LN
EEV (Marconi) CCD36-40: 1340x1300B/F, MPP, 20 x 20µm pixels, TE/LN
EEV (Marconi) CCD36-40: 1340x1300B, MPP, 20 x 20µm pixels, CT (CRYOTIGER)
EEV (Marconi) CCD42-40: 2048x2048B/F, MPP, 13.5 x 13.5µm pixels, TE/LN
Note: The arrays listed are those that were available at the time that the manual was
written. Contact Roper Scientific for an updated list of arrays supported by the
VersArray.
Mounts
C-mount (standard threaded video mount)
F-mount (standard Nikon® bayonet mount)
Focal Distance
CT:
EEV (Marconi), CCD36-40, Front Surface to Focal Plane (no shutter or adapter):
EEV (Marconi), CCD36-40, Front of Shutter to Focal Plane:
LN:
Front of Shutter to Focal Plane:
TE:
C-mount, Front Surface to Focal Plane:
F-mount, Front Surface to Focal Plane:
Fiberoptic, Front Surface to Focal Plane:
Note: The shutter has a 3.88″ bolt circle.
.450"
.890"
0.894″
.720"
1.849"
1.969"
Shutter
CT: 1.77 in (45 mm) aperture, 30 msec open time, 18 msec close time
LN/TE: 1.59 in (40 mm) aperture, 28 msec open time, 28 msec close time
103
104
Version 1.C
Camera Head
Connector: Male, D-subminiature 25-pin power/signal connector
Cooling: Thermoelectric (air or liquid coolant); liquid nitrogen; CRYOTIGER
proprietary coolant
Temperature Stability: ±0.05°C; closed-loop stabilized-temperature control
Gain: Software-selectable (high, medium, low)
CRYOTIGER-Cooled camera head dimensions:
5.67 in (14.40 cm) width;
16.14 in (41.00 cm) length with shutter, 15.70 in (39.88 cm) without shutter;
7.33 in (18.62 cm) height with shutter; 7.04 in (17.88 cm) without shutter
LN-Cooled camera head dimensions:
6.25 in (15.56 cm) width;
9.24 in (23.47 cm) length;
14.56 in (36.98 cm) height;
9 lb (4.2 kg) weight, with shutter, when empty
TE-Cooled camera head dimensions:
C-Mount
F-Mount
4.63 in (11.76 cm) width;
4.63 in (11.76 cm) width;
7.05 in (17.91 cm) length;
8.18 in (20.78 cm) length;
4.63 in (11.76 cm) width;
4.63 in (11.76 cm) width;
7 lb (3.2 kg) weight
7 lb (3.2 kg) weight
Controller
Dimensions: 5.25 in (13.34 cm) width; 13.63 in (34.62 cm) length; 8.75 in (22.23 cm)
height; 13 lb (5.9 kg) weight
Connectors:
VIDEO: 1 V pk-pk from 75 Ω, BNC connector. Either RS-170 (EIA) or CCIR
standard video as specified when system was ordered. Requires connection via
75 Ω cable that must be terminated into 75 Ω.
EXT SYNC: TTL input (BNC) to allow data acquisition to be synchronized with
external events. Sense can be positive or negative going as set in software.
Synchronization and Trigger Modes are discussed in Chapter 5.
: TTL output (BNC) for monitoring camera status. TTL low when array is
being read; otherwise high.
: TTL output (BNC); marks start of first exposure. When run is initiated,
remains high until completion of cleaning cycles preceding first exposure, then
goes low and remains low for duration of run.
Detector Interface: female, D-subminiature 25-pin connector for communication and
data transfer between the controller and the detector. Provides power to detector.
Appendix A
Specifications
105
TTL In/Out: male, D-subminiature 25-pin connector; 8 TTL inputs; 8 TTL outputs
TTL Input: external sync
TTL Output: (ready) frame start; (scan) shutter/readout status
TTL Requirements: Rise time ≤ 40 nsec, Duration ≥ 100 nsec.
AUX BNC connector: Not currently activate. Reserved for future use
Serial Com Interface: female, D-subminiature 9-pin connector for RS232 serial
communication
Power Input: 100, 120, 220, 240 V; 47 to 63 Hz. Power to detector is provided through
the Detector-Controller cable.
Power Consumption: 300 Watts (average)
CRYOTIGER® Compressor
Dimensions:
17 7/8" (454 mm) wide
14 3/4" (375 mm) high
12 1/4" (311 mm) deep
Weight:
Compressor: 71 pounds (32.2 kg)
Gas Lines (10' length): 2 lb (.9 kg) per gas line
Color Codes:
Gas line couplings on the rear of the compressor and on the cryocooler are
labeled SUPPLY (red) and RETURN (green).
Environment:
Location: Protected from the elements.
Ambient Temperature: 50° to 95° F (10° to 30° C).
Clearance: Minimum of 6" (160 mm) clearance from the rear and left side of
the compressor for unrestricted flow of cooling air.
Orientation:
Compressor must be mounted base down and level within 10 degrees of
horizontal.
Power Input:
100, 120, 220, 240 V; 50 or 60 Hz
Options
A partial listing of options includes: Internal Shutters, C-mount Adapters, F-mount
Adapters, and Spectroscopic Mount Adapters. Contact the factory for more information
regarding options available for your system.
106
Version 1.C
Appendix B
Outline Drawings
NOTE: Dimensions are in inches.
1.47
8.18
0.000
CCD at 1.831
OPTICAL DEPTH
VersArray TE Camera: Air- and Liquid-Assist
2.93
2.25
NIKON
F-MOUNT
0.50
COOLING AIR INLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
COOLING AIR OUTLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
Figure 52. TE F-Mount: Side and Bottom Views
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
4.63
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
straight through
Either port can be
used as the Inlet.
4.63
3.16
0.94
OPTIONAL TRIPOD MOUNT
1.14
1.54
EXTERNAL SHUTTER JACK
Figure 53. TE F-Mount: Front and Back Views
107
Version 1.C
7.05
6.16
2.11
CCD at .690
OPTICAL DEPTH
0.000 MOUNTING
SURFACE
108
2.41
2.25
0.500
COOLING AIR INLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
COOLING AIR OUTLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
Figure 54. TE C-Mount: Side and Bottom Views
C-MOUNT
(1.00-32 THREAD)
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
(NOT ACTIVE)
4.63
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
straight through
Either port can be
used as the Inlet.
4.63
3.16
.94
1.14
1.54
Figure 55. TE C-Mount: Front and Back Views
Outline Drawings
109
8.71
0.000
Appendix B
1.52
2.97
2.25
0.50
COOLING AIR INLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
COOLING AIR OUTLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
Figure 56. Fiber-Optic Coupled: Side and Bottom Views
FIBER OPTIC TAPER
(1.5:1 DEMAGNIFICATION)
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
4.63
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
straight through
Either port can be
used as the Inlet.
4.63
3.16
0.94
1.14
1.54
Figure 57. Fiber-Optic Coupled: Front and Back Views
110
Version 1.C
8.18
0.000
CCD at 1.831
OPTICAL DEPTH
VersArray TE Camera: Liquid-Cooled
1.47
2.93
Outlet
Inlet
2.25
NIKON
F-MOUNT
0.50
INLET COOLANT PORT
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
Figure 58. TE F-Mount: Side and Bottom Views
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
4.63
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
Fitting may be
right-angle or
straight through
4.63
Outlet
Inlet
3.16
Inlet
Outlet
0.94
1.14
1.54
Figure 59. TE F-Mount: Front and Back Views
111
7.05
6.16
2.11
Outline Drawings
CCD at 0.690
OPTICAL DEPTH
0.000 MOUNTING
SURFACE
Appendix B
2.41
Outlet
Inlet
2.25
0.500
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
INLET COOLANT PORT
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
Figure 60. TE C-Mount: Side and Bottom Views
C-MOUNT
(1.00-32 THREAD)
4.63
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
Fitting may be
right-angle or
straight through
4.63
Inlet
Outlet
3.16
Inlet
Outlet
0.94
1.14
1.54
Figure 61. TE C-Mount: Front and Back Views
Version 1.C
8.71
0.000
112
1.52
2.97
2.25
Outlet
0.50
Inlet
COOLING AIR INLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
COOLING AIR OUTLET
TYPICAL BOTH SIDES
ALLOW 1.5” FOR
OPTIONAL TRIPOD
MOUNT KIT
(2550-0312)
Figure 62. Fiber-Optic Coupled: Side and Bottom Views
FIBER OPTIC TAPER
(1.5:1 DEMAGNIFICATION)
GAIN SWITCH ACCESS
4.63
DB-25 MALE
TO CONTROLLER
QUICK DISCONNECT
RELEASE TAB
Fitting may be
right-angle or
straight through
4.63
Outlet
Inlet
Inlet
Outlet
3.16
0.94
1.14
1.54
Figure 63. Fiber-Optic Coupled: Front and Back Views
Appendix B
Outline Drawings
113
VersArray LN-Cooled Camera
6.00
LIQUID NITROGEN PORT
SAFETY VALVES
EVACUATION
PORT
10 PSI
RELIEF VALVE
4.11
1.42
1 PSI
RELIEF VALVE
1.50
ELECTRONICS
BOX
3.50
14.36
8.00
12.30
0.894
REMOVABLE
BURST DISC
1.680 TYP
FOCAL
PLANE
0.970
# 10-32 X 0.15
DEEP (6 PLS)
1.940
Ø2.600 X 0.063
HIGH
5.00
Ø 5.00 SHUTTER
HOUSING
5.125
Ø 5.10
FRONT VIEW DETAIL
(6X) Ø0.201 THRU,
C'SINK 90° TO Ø.0415
(FAR SIDE) ON
3.600 BOLT CIRCLE
0.449
FOCAL PLANE
NOTE: DEWAR CAPACITY = 1.7 LITERS
(3X) DRILL Ø0.089 THRU
TAP #4-40 UNC-2B THRU
Ø 5.00 NON-SHUTTER
ADAPTER (2518-0278)
Figure 64. Side-Looking Dewar
FRONT VIEW DETAIL
114
Version 1.C
5.00 DIA.
NOTE: DEWAR CAPACITY = 2.2 LITERS
LIQUID NITROGEN PORT
2.29
2.06 REF
SAFETY VALVES
1.50
5.00
EVACUATION
PORT
17.01
BURST DISC
14.95
ELECTRONICS BOX
6.00 X 8.00
CABLE CONNECTOR
Ø 4.13
SHUTTER CONNECTOR
(FAR SIDE)
Ø 5.10
0.894
Ø 5.00 SHUTTER
HOUSING
CL
Ø 5.00 NON-SHUTTER
ADAPTER (2518-0278)
FOCAL PLANE
Ø2.600 X 0.063
HIGH
(6X) Ø0.201 THRU,
C'SINK 90° TO Ø.0415
(FAR SIDE) ON
3.600 BOLT CIRCLE
1.940
(6X) # 10-32 X 0.15
DEEP
0.970
(3X) DRILL Ø0.089 THRU
TAP #4-40 UNC-2B THRU
1.680 TYP
Figure 65. Down-Looking Dewar
FOCAL PLANE
0.449
Appendix B
Outline Drawings
VersArrayCT Camera
A
A
5.67
15.70 APPROXIMATE
8.36 REF
11.30
2.94
.45
FOCAL PLANE
.14
WINDOW LOCATION
4.49
2.84
7.04
SECTION A-A
120° REF
3X .190-32 UNF-2B
.187 MIN FULL THD
EQ SP ON ∅ 3.600
Figure 66. CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera without Shutter
115
116
A
A
5.67
16.14 APPROXIMATE
8.36 REF
11.74
.89
3.38
FOCAL PLANE
.58
WINDOW LOCATION
3.13
6.25
7.33
SECTION A-A
6X .190-32 UNF-2B
EQ SP ON ∅ 5.890
.35 MAX
60° REF
120° REF
3X .190-32 UNF 2B
EQ SP ON ∅ 3.600
T .15 MAX
Figure 67. CRYOTIGER-Cooled Camera with Shutter
Version 1.C
Appendix B
Outline Drawings
Figure 68. CRYOTIGER Compressor
117
118
Version 1.C
ST-133A Controller
13.63
8.75
5.
25
Figure 69. ST-133A
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
General Information
Figure 70. LN Autofill System
1.
Dewar Adapter: ½” SAE flare nut x 3/8”
5.
Male NPT
2.
Safety Pressure Relief Valve: 100 psi set
½” or 3/8” OD, with threaded male tip
6.
pressure with gooseneck
3.
Solenoid Valve: 9/32” orifice with 3/8”
Dewar Nozzle: Length to fit application x
Liquid Level Sensor: 3/8” OD Std. X
length required.
7.
Dewar Cap Assembly
Female NPT, 100-120 VAC (Optional 200240 VAC)
4.
Vacuum Jacketed Transfer Line: 6-12 ft.
Std. X ¼” ID, ¾” OD with ½” SAE flare
nut on one end and integral Dewar nozzle
on other end.
119
120
Version 1.C
The Princeton Instruments brand Autofill system uses a capacitance-based method for
determining liquid level of the LN2 in a side-looking or end-looking Dewar. When the
liquid goes below the B setpoint, the system will fill the Dewar until the A setpoint is
reached. All operational controls for the LN2 level controller are located on the front
panel of the Autofill Controller, with power, sensor, communication, and control
connections at the rear.
Unpacking the System
1. Examine the shipping carton for any signs of damage and then check the contents. If
damage is visible, save the shipping carton and contact the factory for further
instructions.
2. Unpack the contents and remove all packaging materials.
3. Verify that you have received all items listed on the packing slip.
System Components
A typical Princeton Instruments brand autofill system has the following components:
LN-Cooled Camera
ST-133A Controller
Model 186 Liquid Level Controller
Sensor Assembly
Oscillator
Solenoid-operated Fill Valve
Cables
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
121
Model 186 Front and Rear Panel Controls and Connectors
Front Panel
1
2
3
5
4
ACTIVITY
6
7
HI LEVEL
A
B
LO LEVEL
FILL
MAX
AUTO
~
CLOSED
MIN
CAL
8
9
HI
SET
A
POINTS
B
LO
LENGTH
INTERVAL
SILENCE
OPEN
10
11
!
12
13
Model 186
Liquid Level
Controller
RAISE
INCH
%
LOWER
CM
14
15
1 Fill indication LED
9
2 Activity LED
10 Approximate calibration push-button
3 LED display
11 MAX calibration push-button
4 HI level LED
12 Fill toggle switch
5 A level LED (control band upper limit)
13 Control mode rotary switch
6 B level LED (control band lower limit)
14 Raise/lower toggle switch
7
15 Units Mode toggle switch
LO level LED
8 Power toggle switch
MIN calibration push-button
122
Version 1.C
Rear Panel
1
ON
RS-232
S11
J8
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, iNC.
OAK RIDGE, TN U.S.A.
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTROLLER OUTPUT
LINE: 50-60 Hz, 2.2A MAX
!
J2
LINE VOLTAGE, 2A MAX
2
3
110-120 V
100 V
4
220-240 V
200 V
5
1
RS-232/422 communications port
4
Controller output receptacle to
solenoid fill valve
2
Auxiliary DB-9 connector (see
page 136 for pinout)
5
Input power connector
3
RG-59/U coaxial connector to
oscillator unit via the extension cable
Setting up the System
The following instructions assume that a PCI card has been installed in the host
computer, the application software has been installed, and all cable connections for the
host computer, ST-133A, and the camera have been made. The instructions also assume
that a Liquid Nitrogen supply cylinder is available.
1. Rigidly mount the camera Dewar in place to ensure that the flexible transfer line does
not cause the Dewar to move out of position.
2. Install the sensor assembly into the camera Dewar. Be careful not to damage the
sensor in any way. Dents, crimps, bends, or other physical distortions in the thin wall
capacitor will change the electrical characteristics, possibly causing calibration errors
and/or disruption of proper instrument operation.
Note: You may want to review the Calibration (page 125) and Operation (page 127)
sections before installing the sensor.
3. Connect the oscillator to the cable coming from the sensor assembly. Make sure that
you connect the cable to the correct end. Arrows on the oscillator indicate the correct
orientation. You can also refer to the diagram on page 124.
Appendix C
Caution
LN Autofill System
123
Moisture or contaminants in any of the BNC coaxial connectors can short out the
sensor and cause a false ‘full’ level indication or other erroneous readings. A pack of
non-conductive electrical connection lubricant (ECL or “Dielectric Tune-up Grease”)
has been included with the liquid level sensor packaging to reduce the possibility of
this occurring. If desired, apply a small amount of ECL to any of the BNC connectors
that may be exposed to moisture. Mate the doped connectors then remove any excess
ECL from the outside of the connector. Added protection can be achieved by
covering the doped connections with a short section of heat-shrink tubing.
4. Using the J5 coaxial connector, connect the Model 186 controller to the oscillator
using an RG-59/U coaxial cable.
5. Install the solenoid-operated fill valve by connecting the valve power cable to the AC
Controller output receptacle on the rear panel of the Model 186. The fill valve has a
9/32-inch orifice and the input and output are tapped for 3/8 NPT. Operation of the
controller output receptacle in AUTO mode should be avoided until the controller
setpoints have been specified. See the Operation section for details on specifying the
setpoints and selecting the operational mode for the controller output receptacle.
Caution
WARNING!
When using the solenoid-operated control valve with the Model 186, ensure the valve
is configured for the operating voltage of the Model 186. Failure to do so will result
in faulty operation and may also result in valve damage.
Before touching any of the controller output receptacle terminals or touching the
wiring connected to these terminals, remove power to the Model 186 by unplugging
it or turning the power switch to the off position.
The controller output receptacle conducts hazardous AC line voltage potentials. It is
for use with equipment that has no accessible live parts. Conductors connected to its
terminals must be insulated from user contact by reinforced or double insulation
capable of withstanding 4250 V (impulse) for a 240 VAC Category II installation, or
2550 V (impulse) for a 120 VAC Category II installation.
This instrument is designed for operation from a single-phase power source for
maximum safety. The controller output receptacle circuitry only switches the “line”
(“hot”) connection to the AC mains. If two-phase power is applied, any equipment
connected to the controller output receptacle conducts hazardous AC voltage even
when the controller output receptacle is not turned on.
WARNING!
The Model 186 operates on 50-60 Hz power and may be configured for 110-120 or
208-240 VAC ±10% (100 or 200 VAC ±10% for Japan and South Korea). The
power requirements for each controller are marked on the calibration sticker on the
bottom of the controller. Be sure your controller is configured for your power source
prior to plugging in the powercord. Do not fail to connect the input ground terminal
securely to an external earth ground.
6. Ensure the front panel switch is in the OFF position. Verify that the controller is
configured for the proper operating voltage by referring to the calibration sticker
124
Version 1.C
affixed to the bottom of the controller. If the operating voltage is correct, plug the
powercord into the appropriate power receptacle.
Do not install the Model 186 in a manner that prevents removal of the powercord
from the rear panel of the controller.
SOLENOID -OPERATED
FLOW VALVE
EXTENSION CABLE
RG-59/U COAXIAL
CABLE, 6 FT. LENGTH
OUT
IN
3/8 NPT
REAR PANEL
RS-232
ON
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, iNC.
OAK RIDGE, TN U.S.A.
S11
J8
COMMUNICATIONS
CONTROLLER OUTPUT
LINE: 50-60 Hz, 2.2A MAX
!
J2
TO SENSOR
WARNING!
LINE VOLTAGE, 2A MAX
110-120 V
100 V
220-240 V
200 V
OSCILLATOR
MODEL 186
LIQUID LEVEL
CONTROLLER
OSCILLATOR CABLE
RG-59/U COAXIAL
CABLE, 6 FT. LENGTH
ACTIVITY
HI LEVEL
A
B
LO LEVEL
FILL
MAX
~
MIN
CAL
3/8 NPT NYLON
FEED-THROUGH
AUTO
CLOSED
OPEN
!
HI
SET
A
POINTS
B
LO
LENGTH
INTERVAL
SILENCE
Model 186
Liquid Level
Controller
RAISE
INCH
LOWER
CM
%
FRONT PANEL
TOTAL
SENSOR
LENGTH
ACTIVE
SENSOR
LENGTH
SENSOR
3/8
Figure 71. Model 186 Instrument, Control Valve and Sensor System Diagram
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
125
Calibration
Introduction
Model 186 controllers are calibrated at the factory for the supplied sensor. The calibration
length and calibration liquid are listed on the calibration sticker on the bottom of the
controller. If the factory calibration method utilized was approximate, the calibration
length will be noted as an approximate value.
Relationship between Calibration and Sensor Length
The capacitance-based method of measuring the measuring the liquid level operates by
measuring the frequency of an oscillator, which is contained in the oscillator/transmitter
unit. As the liquid level varies, the value of the capacitance varies proportionally. A
calibration is required to assure maximum accuracy for a specific sensor. The calibration
MIN and MAX settings correspond to the maximum and minimum oscillation
frequencies, respectively, for a given sensor configuration.
The LENGTH setting of the controller is only provided as a means of scaling the 0%
(MIN) to 100% (MAX) range of the measurement to meaningful units of length. If the
user wants to operate the sensor in units of length, it will be necessary to accurately
measure the distance between the physical locations on the sensor corresponding to the
MAX and MIN calibration points. The measured value for the length will be used in
configuring the controller for operation.
Note: All references to “dielectric constant” herein refer to the unitless relative dielectric
to ε0 (ε0 is the dielectric constant of a vacuum).
Calibration Procedure
Introduction
Before performing the Calibration, the MAX/MIN calibration points and the Cadj factor
must be preset and the system must be fully set up so that LN can be added to the camera
Dewar through the sensor assembly. Since the MAX/MIN calibration points and the Cadj
factor have been set at the factory, you do not have to reset them to perform the following
calibration.
1. Install the sensor in the Dewar and turn on the Model 186 with the sensor connected
to the controller via the oscillator and extension cables (see the system diagram on
page 124).
2. Begin filling the Dewar. While the sensor is cooling down, there may be a slow drift
in the displayed liquid level. However, when the liquid actually touches the bottom of
the sensor, contact with the liquid surface may become apparent by virtue of more
random and frequent fluctuations in the displayed liquid level. The liquid level trace
will also start to show an increasing profile with positive slope.
3. Once the indications of the contact between the sensor and liquid become readily
apparent, press the MIN push-button through the small hole provided in the controller
front panel. When the calibration point has been accepted, the display will show
"bbb.b" and the pushbutton can then be released. This point is the 0% level of the
sensor.
126
Version 1.C
Note: If the sensor is installed in the Dewar with some small amount of liquid
already in contact with the sensor, then the final MIN calibration point can be set
before filling begins but after any thermally induced fluctuations in the observed
output have diminished. However, note that the measured span of the liquid level is
reduced by the initial level of liquid in contact with the sensor.
4. When LN vents from the Dewar, push the MAX pushbutton through the small hole
provided in the Model 186 front panel. When the calibration data has been accepted,
the display will show "bbb.b" and the pushbutton can then be released. The level on
the sensor when the MAX button is pressed becomes the 100% level.
Note: If the controller displayed a 100% reading before venting occurs, then the
MAX calibration point set prior to the current procedure has interfered. If this occurs,
continue the liquid transfer until venting begins and then press the MAX calibration
pushbutton.
Proceed to the Operation section for directions for configuring the controller.
Resetting the MAX/MIN Calibration Points and Cadj Factor
The MAX/MIN calibration points set at the factory should not need to be reset. However,
if the sensor probe is slightly damaged (bent or dented), you may want to reset these
points to compensate for the change in capacitance. The Cadj factor would have to be
recalculated if you are changing from LN to a different liquid (and vice versa).
The following procedure should be performed before installing the sensor in the target
Dewar.
1. Connect the extension and oscillator cables to the J5 coaxial connector on the
rear panel of the controller (see page 124 for a system diagram). Do not connect
the sensor. Turn on the controller. Press the MIN push-button through the small
hole provided on the controller front panel. When the calibration point has been
accepted, the display will show "bbb.b" and the push-button can then be released.
2. Connect the sensor to the oscillator cable (which is still connected to the
controller via the extension cable). Press the MAX push-button through the small
hole provided on the controller front panel. When the calibration point has been
accepted, the display will show "bbb.b" and the push-button can then be released.
3. Calculate the factor Cadj using the following equation:
where Ltotal is the total sensor length in inches, Lactive is the active sensor length in
inches, and e is the dielectric constant of the target liquid.
4. Enter Cadj into the controller by placing the front panel control mode rotary
switch in the SILENCE position. By using the RAISE/ LOWER toggle switch
and holding it in the up or down position, adjust the displayed value up or down.
The display will move slowly at first and then faster. Once near the desired value,
simply release the switch momentarily and then resume changing the factor at the
slower speed. Once the desired number has been reached, release the toggle
switch.
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
127
5. Once the value for Cadj has been entered, momentarily press the CAL push-button
labeled as "~" (the tilde character) through the small hole provided in the
controller front panel. When the value has been accepted, the display will show
"ddd.d" and the button can then be released.
Operation
Turn on the Model 186
After completion of the Installation and Calibration procedures, turn on the Model 186
switching the Power toggle to the POWER position. The LED display will briefly display
AAAA and then indicate the liquid level, and the yellow ACTIVITY LED will begin
blinking.
Note: The ACTIVITY LED provides visual indication that the microprocessor is making
sensor readings. If a fault should develop which prohibits the microprocessor from
operating correctly (such as a break in cabling) the LED will not blink or blink slowly,
and the display will continuously show 100%.
Note: If the displayed level reading is below the LO SETPOINT level or exceeds the HI
SETPOINT, an audible alarm will sound. To silence the alarm, rotate the control mode
rotary switch on the front panel to the SILENCE position.
The controller is normally calibrated at the factory for the specific sensor supplied with the
unit for use in a target liquid. If the need arises for recalibration, see the Calibration section.
Active Length Setting
The Model 186 was shipped with the length value set to the active sensor length. This
setting allows the controller to scale the measurement to meaningful units of length
(inches, centimeters, or percentage) for display. To view the present length setting,
switch the Units Mode toggle to either the INCH or CM position. Turn the Control Mode
knob to the LENGTH position. Push and release the RAISE/ LOWER toggle either up
or down. The display will momentarily show the current length setting.
To change the length setting, use the RAISE/LOWER toggle switch to move the setting
up or down by continuously holding it in the up or down position. The display will move
slowly at first and then faster. Once near the desired value, simply release the switch
momentarily and then resume changing the setpoint at the slower speed. The new active
sensor length is permanently stored in memory. Check the value by momentarily placing
the toggle switch in either position from the center position.
Note: The LENGTH adjustment can only be performed in the INCH or CM units modes.
The LENGTH adjustment is inactive if the units are set for %.
128
Version 1.C
HI and LO SETPOINTs
The HI and LO setpoints are used for alarm purposes only: they do not control filling the
Dewar. To adjust the HI and LO setpoints, turn the Control Mode knob to the HI
SETPOINT position or the LO SETPOINT position, respectively. Use the
RAISE/LOWER toggle to adjust the respective setpoint in the same manner as described
for the LENGTH adjustment. The setpoints may be located anywhere between 0% to
100% of the active sensor length. The HI and LO setpoint adjustments are compatible
with all three units modes.
•
When the measured liquid level exceeds the HI setpoint, the HI LEVEL LED on
the front panel is turned on and a set of relay contacts are closed on the 9-pin D
connector J2 on the rear panel (see page 136 for the pinout). When the level
reaches or falls below the HI setpoint, the LED is extinguished and the relay
contacts open.
•
When the measured liquid level falls below the LO setpoint, the LO LEVEL
LED on the front panel is turned on and a set of relay contacts are closed on the
9-pin D connector J2 on the rear panel (see page 136 for the pinout). When the
level reaches or exceeds the LO setpoint, the LED is extinguished and the
contacts open.
Notes:
1. The HI and LO contacts are both closed on power-off of the controller which is a
state unique to the power-off condition.
2. If the LENGTH is adjusted subsequent to configuring the various setpoints, the
percentage of active length will be maintained for all setpoints. For example, if
the LENGTH is set to 100 cm and the HI SETPOINT is set to 80 cm, then
adjusting the LENGTH to 150 cm will result in the HI SETPOINT being
automatically scaled to 120 cm—i.e., the setting of 80% of active length is
maintained.
A and B SETPOINTs
To adjust the A and B setpoints, which specify the upper and lower limits for the liquid
level control band, turn the Control Mode knob to the A SETPOINT position or the B
SETPOINT position, respectively. Use the RAISE/LOWER toggle switch to adjust the
respective setpoint in the same manner as described for the LENGTH adjustment. The A
and B setpoint adjustments are compatible with all three units modes.
•
When the measured liquid level reaches or exceeds the A setpoint, the A LEVEL
LED on the front panel is turned on, indicating that any filling operation should
stop. When the level falls below the A setpoint, the LED is extinguished.
•
When the measured liquid level falls below the B setpoint, the B LEVEL LED on
the front panel is turned on, indicating the filling the Dewar should start. When
the level reaches or exceeds the B setpoint, the LED is extinguished.
•
In addition to the LED functions, the Controller Output receptacle may be turned
on and off as discussed in the next section.
Note: The A setpoint must always be above the B setpoint. Both setpoints may be set
from 0% to 100% of the LENGTH setting as long as A > B.
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
Setpoint
129
Value
Length
9.5 in.
Cadj
150
HI
90.0%
LO
0.1%
A
80.0%
B
5.0%
Interval
10.0 min.
Table 12. Typical Values for Setpoints
Controller Output Receptacle Operational Mode
The operation of the CONTROLLER OUTPUT receptacle is controlled by the Fill toggle
switch on the front panel. Operation of the Fill toggle is as follows:
•
CLOSED (or OFF): With the controller power on and the Fill switch in the
CLOSED position, the controller serves only as a level monitor, giving a level
reading on the digital display and providing data via the communication port on
the rear panel. All four setpoint LEDs (and associated J2 connector relay
contacts) operate normally; however, the Controller Output receptacle will
always be turned off.
•
OPEN (or ON): With the fill switch in the OPEN position, the rear panel
Controller Output receptacle will be turned on, thereby starting flow if the
solenoid-operated fill valve is properly connected. The FILL LED on the front
panel will light indicating the presence of power at the Controller Output
receptacle. The operator is solely responsible for terminating the fill flow.
•
AUTO: With the Fill switch in the AUTO position, the Model 186 can
automatically start and stop liquid fill via the control valve, thereby maintaining
the level between the selected A and B setpoints. If the liquid level falls below
the B setpoint, the rear panel Controller Output receptacle and front panel FILL
LED are turned on. When the liquid level subsequently reaches or exceeds the A
setpoint, the Controller Output receptacle and the FILL LED are turned off.
Fill Timer INTERVAL
An INTERVAL time-out of up to 600 minutes is provided to lessen the possibility of
liquid overflow. The time-out feature is enabled when the controller is operated in the
AUTO mode with an INTERVAL setting > 0. Once the liquid level falls below the B
setpoint, an internal fill timer (whose period is the INTERVAL setting) begins to count
down. If the liquid level does not reach the A setpoint before the timer expires, the
display will flash rapidly and power to the rear panel Controller Output receptacle will be
interrupted. To reset this function the Fill toggle must be momentarily placed in the ON
position (to complete the filling process manually) or power to the controller must be
momentarily turned off.
130
Version 1.C
Note: The INTERVAL function is disabled when the INTERVAL setting is “0.0”.
Adjusting the INTERVAL setting to “0.0” will also end any in-progress functions of the
INTERVAL timer.
The INTERVAL setting can be changed by turning the Control Mode knob to the
INTERVAL position and using the RAISE/LOWER toggle switch to adjust the setting up
or down. The display will move slowly at first and then faster. Once near the desired
value, which is displayed in minutes, release the switch momentarily and then continue
changing the setpoint at the slower speed. The controller is shipped from the factory with
a zero interval time.
Units Display Output
Place the Units Mode toggle in the position desired for the display output units during
operation. The % position displays the percentage of active sensor length that is
immersed in liquid.
Serial Communication
The 25-pin D-type connector on the rear panel of the controller is available for serial
communications and data logger function.
Serial Port Connector and Cabling
An IBM-compatible computer’s serial port can be directly connected to the Model 186
via a standard PC modem cable. Refer to your computer’s documentation to determine
which serial ports are available on your computer and the required connector type. The
cable to connect two DB25 connectors is wired directly ( i.e., pin 1 to pin 1, pin 2 to pin
2, etc.). If a DB9 connector is required at the computer interface, the connector
translation is provided on page 136.
The Model 186 uses only three wires of the rear-panel DB25 connector: pin 2 (transmit),
pin 3 (receive), and pin 7 (common). There is no software or hardware handshaking. The
Model 186 is classified as a DCE (Data Communication Equipment) device since it
transmits data on pin 3 and receives data on pin 2. The controller to which the Model 186
is attached must do the opposite, i.e., transmit on pin 2 and receive on pin 3 (the
requirements for a DTE, or Data Terminal Equipment device). If a serial-to-parallel
converter is used, it must be capable of receiving data on pin 3 or the cable connected to
the Model 186 must interchange the wires between pins 2 and 3.
The Optional RS-422 connector pinout is provided on page 137.
Command/Return Termination Characters
All commands are transmitted and received as ASCII values and are case insensitive. The
Model 186 always transmits <CR><LF> (i.e., a carriage return followed by a linefeed)
at the end of a serial transmission. The Model 186 can accept <CR>, <LF>,
<CR><LF>, or <LF><CR> as termination characters from an external computer.
The simplest method for communicating with the Model 186 via RS-232 is by using the
interactive mode of a commercially available terminal emulation program. The
Model 186 transmits and receives information at various baud rates and uses 8 data bits,
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
131
no parity, and 1 stop bit. When the Model 186 receives a terminated ASCII string, it
always sends back a reply as soon as the string is processed. When sending commands to
the Model 186, you must wait for the reply from the Model 186 before sending another
command even if the reply consists of only termination characters. Otherwise, the shared
input/output command buffer of the Model 186 may become corrupted.
Serial Communication DIP Switch Settings
The 8 DIP switches located on the rear panel of the Model 186 are
used to control various parameters of the RS-232 interface.
Switches 6 through 8 control the baud rate of the interface.
Switches 3 through 5 control the time interval between data output if the data logger
function is enabled. Switch 2 controls the echo feature and Switch 1 enables the data
logger function. Each of these features is fully discussed below.
Baud Rate Control
The Model 186 baud rate is controlled by switches 6 through 8 of the communication
DIP switch on the rear panel. The unit is shipped with the baud rate set at 9600. The
switch settings for various baud rates are (on = 1 or the up position):
DIP switch
6
7
8
Baud rate
off
off
off
300
off
off
on
600
off
on
off
1200
off
on
on
2400
on
off
off
4800
on
off
on
9600
Echo Function
The Model 186 has an echo feature that is enabled or disabled by communication DIP
switch 2. When the echo function is enabled, the Model 186 will echo the incoming
command characters back to the transmitting device. The echo feature is useful when
using an interactive terminal program on a host computer for communicating with the
Model 186. The settings are:
DIP switch 2
Function
on
Echo On
off
Echo Off
Data Logger Function
Switch 1 of the communications DIP switch controls the data logger function. The unit is
shipped with the data logger function disabled. This feature is normally used with a
printer rather than a host computer, since a computer can be more usefully programmed
132
Version 1.C
utilizing the available command set. The data logger function generates a time relative to
controller power-up and a corresponding level. The units of the level output are set by the
Units Mode toggle switch. The time and corresponding level are formatted and output to
the host device at regular intervals as specified by the switches 3 through 5. The settings
for the data logger function are:
DIP switch 1
Function
on
Data Logger On
off
Data Logger Off
The host device can be a standard dot matrix printer connected via a serial-to-parallel
converter, or connected directly with a printer capable of receiving serial data.
Presumably, any serial-to-parallel converter that can be properly configured is acceptable.
The Model 186 has been tested with a standard, low cost converter configured as a DTE
device, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. In order to communicate with the host
device, it is necessary to set the Model 186 to the identical baud rate of the host device.
Data Logger Output Interval
The interval between successive output from the data logger function is controlled by
switches 3 through 5. The unit is shipped with the data logger function disabled (see
above). The available intervals and the corresponding switch settings are (on = 1 or the
up position):
DIP switch
3
4
5
Interval (minutes)
off
off
off
1
off
off
on
2
off
on
off
5
off
on
on
10
on
off
off
20
on
off
on
30
on
on
off
60
Serial Command Set Reference
All commands sent to the Model 186 are processed and the Model 186 responds with a
return value (if applicable) and termination. All return values are terminated with
<CR><LF> (i.e., a carriage return followed by a linefeed). For those commands that do
not return a value, the Model 186 will return the <CR><LF> termination only.
Commands for Controlling the Units of Measurement
The CM command sets the units of measurement to centimeters and the INCH command
selects inches. The PERCENT command sets the units of measurement to the percentage
of active sensor length that is immersed in liquid. The units of measurement selected
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
133
through the serial interface are controlled independently from the Units Mode
toggle switch used for controlling the front panel display. The remote units setting is
saved in permanent memory by the SAVE command and is restored at power-up. The
UNIT command returns a one character value (and termination) indicating the current
units—C for centimeters, I for inches, or % for percentage.
Command:
CM
Function:
Sets the units of
measurement to
centimeters
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
INCH
Function:
Sets the units of
measurement to
inches
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
PERCENT
Function:
Sets the
measurement to %
of sensor length
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
UNIT
Function:
Returns the current
units in use
Returns:
C, I, or %
<CR><LF>
Commands for Configuring Permanent Memory
Command:
HI= <value>
Function:
Configures the HI
setpoint limit
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
LO= <value>
Function:
Configures the LO
setpoint limit
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
A= <value>
Function:
Configures the A
setpoint (control
band upper limit)
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
B= <value>
Function:
Configures the B
setpoint (control
band lower limit)
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
INTERVAL=
<value>
Function:
Configures the fill
timer in minutes
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
LENGTH=
<value>
Function:
Configures the
active sensor
length
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
SAVE
Function:
Saves the
configuration to
permanent memory
Returns:
<CR><LF>
134
Version 1.C
The HI and LO command configure the high and low setpoint limit values respectively.
For example, HI=90.0 would configure the high setpoint limit to 90.0 in whichever units
of measurement last selected through the serial interface. The A and B commands
configure the upper limit and lower limit of the control band, respectively. The HI, LO,
A, and B commands are compatible with the percent units selection.
The LENGTH command configures the active sensor length setting in the current units.
LENGTH=35.0 would configure the active sensor length to 35.0 units of centimeters or
inches.
Note: The LENGTH=<value> command will only function if CM or INCH are currently
selected as the units of measurement. The LENGTH command does not configure the
Model 186 if the units of measurement are PERCENT.
The INTERVAL command sets the fill timer in minutes as described in the Operation
section on page 127. Setting the value of INTERVAL to 0 disables the fill timer function.
The SAVE command saves the HI, LO, A, B, INTERVAL, LENGTH, and current
remote units settings to permanent memory. Saved settings are then recalled each time
the power is turned off and then reapplied to the controller. If the configuration is
changed from the front panel, the new settings are automatically saved to permanent
memory.
Commands for Querying the Configuration
The HI, LO, A, B, INTERVAL, and LENGTH commands return the current
configuration of the controller. Each return value is terminated with <CR><LF>.
Command:
HI
Function:
Returns the HI
setpoint limit in the
current units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Command:
LO
Function:
Returns the LO
current units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Command:
A
Function:
Returns the A
current units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Command:
B
Function:
Returns the B
current units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Command:
INTERVAL
Function:
Returns the fill
timer setting in
minutes
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Command:
LENGTH
Function:
Returns the active
sensor length in the
current units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
135
Command for Returning a Level Measurement
Command:
LEVEL
Function:
Returns the liquid
level in the current
units
Returns:
<value>
<CR><LF>
The LEVEL command returns the liquid level in the current units selected through the
communication interface.
Commands for Performing Remote Calibration
The calibration commands perform a remote calibration equivalent to activating the front
panel MIN, MAX, and “~” (approximate) calibration buttons. The calibration is
automatically saved to permanent memory. See the Calibration section for more
information regarding calibration.
Command:
MINCAL
Function:
Performs a MIN
calibration
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
MAXCAL
Function:
Performs a MAX
calibration
Returns:
<CR><LF>
Command:
APPROX=
<value>
Function:
Performs an
approximate
calibration using
value as the
approximate
calibration factor
Returns:
<CR><LF>
0RGHO
___
136
Version 1.C
J2 Connector Pinout
Pin
Function
1
Not used
2
Not used
3
Not used
4
Not used
5&6
LO level relay contacts (dry)
7&8
HI level relay contacts (dry)
9
Not used
The HI level and LO level contacts are provided for external use by the customer. When
a HI or LO level condition exists, the respective contact pairs are closed. All setpoints
have 1/2 mm hysteresis, therefore the respective contact pairs may “chatter” if the liquid
sloshes, bubbles, etc.
The HI level and LO level contacts also provide positive indication of a power-off
condition. With a power-off condition, both the HI level and LO level contacts will be
closed, which is a state unique to the power-off condition. The following table provides
the specifications for the relay contacts:
Max switching VA
10
Max switching voltage
30 VAC or 60 VDC
Max switching current
0.5 A
Max continuous current
1.5 A
RS-232 Cable DB-25 to DB-9 Translation
DB-25 Pin
DB-9 Pin
2
3
3
2
4
7
5
8
6
6
7
5
8
1
20
4
22
9
All other pins on the DB-25 connector are unused. This is
standard PC modem cable wiring.
Appendix C
LN Autofill System
137
RS-422 Cable Wiring
Dielectric Constants for Common Liquids
The table below contains relative dielectric constants for common cryogenic liquids at
atmospheric pressure (unless otherwise noted).
Liquid
Dielectric Constant*
Argon (A)
1.53 @ -191°C
Nitrogen (N2 )
1.454 @ -203°C
Table 13. Dielectric Constants for Common Liquids
*
Reference: Weast, Robert C. Ph.D., Editor, CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 67th
Edition, CRC Press, Inc., Boca Raton, FL, 1986 (pgs. E-49 through E-53).
138
Version 1.C
Troubleshooting
The following paragraphs serve as an aid to assist a qualified service person (QSP) in
troubleshooting a potential problem with the Model 186. If the QSP is not comfortable
with troubleshooting the system, you may contact an authorized Roper Scientific
Technical Support Representative for assistance. Refer to “Additional Technical Support”
on page 141.
This controller contains CMOS components that are susceptible to damage by
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD). Take the following precautions whenever the cover of the
controller is removed.
1. Disassemble the controller only in a static-free work area.
2. Use a conductive workstation or work area to dissipate static charge.
3. Use a high resistance grounding wrist strap to reduce static charge accumulation.
4. Ensure all plastic, paper, vinyl, Styrofoam ® and other static generating materials
are kept away from the work area.
5. Minimize the handling of the controller and all static sensitive components.
6. Keep replacement parts in static-free packaging.
7. Do not slide static-sensitive devices over any surface.
8. Use only antistatic type solder suckers.
9. Use only grounded-tip soldering irons.
No level reading
1. Ensure that the controller is connected to a power source of proper voltage.
WARNING!
If the controller has been found to have been connected to an incorrect power source,
return the controller to Roper Scientific for evaluation to determine the extent of the
damage. Frequently, damage of this kind is not visible and must be determined using test
equipment. Connecting the controller to an incorrect power source could damage the
internal insulation and/or the ground requirements, thereby, possibly presenting a severe
life-threatening electrical hazard.
2. Verify continuity of the line fuse, F1, located on the controller printed circuit board.
WARNING!
This procedure is to be performed only when the controller is completely turned off by
removing the powercord from the power receptacle. Failure to do so could result in
personnel coming in contact with high voltages capable of producing life-threatening
electrical shock.
a. Ensure the controller is completely turned off by disconnecting the powercord
from the power source. Disconnect the powercord from the connector located
on the rear panel of the controller.
b. Remove the controller top cover and check the fuse F1 for continuity.
c. If the fuse is bad, replace with a 315 mA IEC 127-2 Type F Sheet II 5x20 mm
fuse.
Appendix C
Caution
LN Autofill System
139
Installing fuses of incorrect values and ratings could result in damage to the controller in
the event of component failure.
d. Replace the fuse and securely fasten the controller top cover. Reconnect the
powercord.
3. Verify the input voltage selector switch on the controller’s printed circuit board is
in the proper position for the available power receptacle at the customer’s
facility. Checking the input voltage selector requires removal of the top cover of
the controller. Observe the same safety procedures as presented in step 2.
Erratic or erroneous level reading
1. Verify that the sensor is properly connected to the oscillator cable and the
extension cable (see the system diagram on page 124).
2. Verify the cabling has no breaks or cuts.
3. If the Model 186 suddenly reads 100% without a corresponding level, there is a
possibility of moisture in the connector at the top of the sensor. Disconnect the
BNC connection and remove any moisture. Moisture or contaminants in any of
the BNC coaxial connectors can short out the sensor and cause a false ‘full’ level
indication or other erroneous readings. A pack of non-conductive electrical
connection lubricant (ECL or “Dielectric Tune-up Grease”) has been included
with the liquid level sensor packaging to reduce the possibility of this occurring.
Apply a small amount of ECL to any of the BNC connectors that may be exposed
to moisture. Mate the doped connectors then remove any excess ECL from the
outside of the connector. Added protection can be achieved by covering the
doped connections with a short section of heat-shrink tubing.
Note: MSDS sheets for the ECL are available upon request.
4. Ensure the oscillator unit is not exposed to large temperature gradients such as
those that occur near Dewar vents. Extreme temperature changes of the oscillator
unit can cause readout errors.
5. Rapidly varying or sloshing liquids will sometimes make one think the controller
is in error when it is actually operating properly.
6. Capacitance-based sensors used in cryogenic liquid systems are sometimes
exposed to humidified air when the cryogenic vessel is emptied. This often
happens when a cold trap runs out of liquid. As the sensor warms, the electronics
can show large errors (readings greater than 20% are not uncommon). This is due
to the fact that air contains moisture that will condense between the cold sensing
tubes. This small film of moisture can cause a shorted or partially shorted
condition. The electronics may recognize this as a higher level reading and
display some positive level. As the sensor warms over some period of time, the
moisture can evaporate and the sensor will again approach the correct reading of
0%. This condition can also be corrected immediately if liquid nitrogen is added
to the cold trap freezing the residual moisture. This is a physical phenomenon
and does not indicate any problem with your Roper Scientific level equipment.
7. Verify the sensor is free of contaminants and not subject to any physical
distortion. Disconnect the BNC connector at the top of the sensor and measure
the sensor resistance by placing an ohmmeter across the center pin and the outer
barrel of the connector. The resistance of the sensor should typically be >10 MΩ.
140
Version 1.C
Controller output does not turn on
WARNING! This procedure is to be performed only when the controller is completely turned off and
the power-cord has been removed from the power receptacle. Failure to do so could result
in personnel coming in contact with high voltages capable of producing life-threatening
electrical shock.
1. Verify continuity of controller output fuses, F2 and F3, located on the controller
printed circuit board.
a. Ensure the controller is turned off and that the powercord is disconnected from
the power source. Disconnect the powercord from the connector located on the
rear panel of the controller.
b. Remove the controller top cover and check the fuses F2 and F3 for continuity.
c. If a fuse is bad, replace with a 2.5A IEC 127-2 Type F Sheet II 5x20 mm fuse.
•
Caution
Check your connected equipment for compliance with the output receptacle
rating.
Installing fuses of incorrect values and ratings could result in damage to the controller in
the event of component failure.
2. Replace the fuse and securely fasten the controller top cover. Reconnect the
powercord.
Unit not responding to communications
1. Verify your communications cable integrity and wiring. See page 136 for the
DB-25 to DB-9 translation for RS-232 cables.
2. Check to make sure you are sending the correct termination to the controller.
Make sure the echo feature is set correctly for your application and the baud rate
matches the setting of the host device. Check your host communications software
and make sure it is recognizing the return termination characters from the
controller. For serial communication, the return termination characters are
<CR><LF>.
3. If the controller is responding repeatedly with -8 as the return message, try a
device clear command (DCL) or powering the controller off and then back on. Be
sure you are sending valid commands.
Custom Instrument Configurations
Modifying the line voltage requirements
WARNING!
Before removing the cover of the controller, remove the power from the controller by
disconnecting the powercord from the power receptacle. Failure to do this could expose
the user to high voltages and could result in life-threatening electrical shock.
Appendix C
Caution
LN Autofill System
141
The Model 186 controller operates on 50-60 Hz power and may be configured for 110120 or 208-240 VAC ±10% (100 or 200 VAC ±10% for Japan and South Korea). The
power requirements for each controller are marked on the rear panel. Be sure the
controller’s power requirements match your power source prior to plugging in the
powercord. Do not fail to connect the input ground terminal securely to an external earth
ground.
If the controller operating voltage needs to be changed, make sure the controller is turned
off and that the powercord is disconnected from the power source. Remove the controller
cover and slide the voltage selector switch on the main printed circuit board to the proper
voltage. Replace the controller cover and indelibly mark the rear panel indications to
match the new configuration.
Additional Technical Support
If the cause of a problem cannot be located, contact a Roper Scientific representative at
(609) 587-9797 for assistance. The Roper Scientific technical support group may also be
reached by Internet e-mail at [email protected]. Additional technical
information, latest software releases, etc. are available at the Roper Scientific World
Wide Web site at: http://www.roperscientific.com
Do not return the Model 186 or other liquid level system components to Roper Scientific
without prior return authorization.
Return Authorization
Items to be returned to Roper Scientific for repair (warranty or otherwise) require a return
authorization number to ensure your order will receive proper attention. Please call a
Roper Scientific representative at (609) 587-9797 for a return authorization number
before shipping any item back to the factory.
Specifications
Level Measurementsa
Resolution: 0.1%, 0.1 cm, or 0.1 in
Linearity: ±0.1%
Maximum Length Readout: 650.0 cm (255.9 in)
Operating Parameters
HI and LO Alarms: 0% to 100% adjustable
HI/LO Alarm Relay Contact Ratings: 10 VA, 30 VAC or 60 VDC, 0.5 A (normally
open, closed on alarm)
A and B Control Setpoints: 0% to 100% adjustable
a.
b.
Under extreme radiated electromagnetic field conditions (3V/m at 450 MHz to 610 MHz), the accuracy
may be degraded by an additional ±0.7%.
Units configured for Japan or South Korea cannot be configured for operation at other voltages without
an internal transformer change, and vice-versa.
142
Version 1.C
Controller Output: AC line voltage @ 2A max current
Fill Timer: 0.1 to 600.0 minutes
Power Requirements
Primaryb: 110-120 or 208-240 VAC ±10% 50 - 60 Hz
For Japan or S. Korea: 100 or 200 VAC ±10%
Maximum Current: 2.2 A
Physical
Dimensions (Standard): 97 mm H x 213 mm W x 282 mm D (3.8" H x 8.4" W x
11.1" D)
Weight (Standard): 1.6 kg (3.6 lbs.)
Environmental
Ambient Temperature: Operating: 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F)
Nonoperating: -20 °C to 60 °C (-4 °F to 140 °F)
Relative Humidity: 0 to 95%; non-condensing
Appendix D
Spectrometer Adapters
Roper Scientific offers a variety of spectrometer adapters for LN- and NTE-based
VersArray systems. The mounting instructions for these adapters are organized by
spectrometer model, detector type, and adapter kit number. The table below crossreferences these items with the page number for the appropriate instruction set.
Spectrometer
Detector Type
Adapter Kit
No.
Page
Acton
LN with shutter, NTE with/without shutter
144
Chromex 250 IS
7050-0089
145
ISA HR 320
7050-0002
146
ISA HR 640
7050-0014
147
JY TRIAX
NTE without shutter
7384-0072
148
SPEX 270M
7050-0042
149
SPEX 500M
7050-0018
150
SPEX TripleMate
7050-0006
151
143
144
Version 1.C
Acton (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
Adapter (supplied with spectrometer)
Spacer Plate (removed)
1
1.
Qty
P/N
3
2826-0127
Description
Screw, 10-32 × 1/4, Button Head Allen Hex, Stainless Steel
Assembly Instructions
1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the detector port on the
spectrometer.
2. Loosen the setscrews holding the Acton adapter in the spectrometer and remove the
adapter.
3. Remove the spacer plate from the adapter by removing the three (3) socket head
screws.
4. Mount the Acton adapter to the face of the detector drum housing (dashed outline in
illustration) with the three (3) 1/4" long button head screws.
5. Gently insert the adapter into the spectrometer and fasten with the setscrews.
Note: Adapter parts are machined to provide a tight fit. It is necessary to rotate the detector
back and forth when inserting into the spectrometer adapter. Do not force the two parts of the
adapter together, as they can be permanently damaged by excessive force.
Appendix D
145
Chromex 250 IS (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
4
2
3
1
5
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2517-0901
Plate, Adapter-Female
2.
4
2826-0283
Screw, 10-32 × 3/4, Socket head, Stainless Steel, Hex, Black
3.
1
2518-0107
Adapter-Male, HR320
4.
3
2826-0127
5.
1
2826-0082
Set Screw, 10-32 × 1/4, Stainless Steel, Allen Hex, Nylon Tip
1. Attach part 1 to the spectrometer (dashed line in illustration) with the socket head
screws provided.
2. Attach part 3 to the detector with the three (3) 1/4" long button head screws provided.
3. Gently insert part 3 into part 1 and fasten with the setscrew.
Note: Adapter parts are machined to provide a tight fit. It is necessary to rotate the
detector back and forth when inserting into the spectrometer adapter. Do not force the
two parts of the adapter together, as they can be permanently damaged by excessive
force.
146
Version 1.C
ISA HR 320 (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
Remove spectrometer cover
for these screws.
1
4
3
2
5
5
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2518-0106
Adapter-Female, HR320
2.
3
2826-0087
Screw, M5-10, Flat Head, Socket, Stainless Steel
3.
1
2518-0107
Adapter-Male, HR320
4.
3
2826-0127
5.
2
2826-0082
1. Remove the spectrometer cover.
2. Insert part 1 into the spectrometer (dashed line in illustration), fasten with the flathead
screws provided, and replace spectrometer cover.
3. Gently insert part 3 into part 1 and fasten with the setscrews.
4. Replace the spectrometer cover.
Appendix D
147
ISA HR 640 (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
5
4
1
3
2
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2518-0203
Adapter-Female, HR640
2.
4
2826-0144
Screw, M4-.7 × 14, Socket Head Cap, Stainless Steel
3.
1
2518-0107
Adapter-Male, HR320
4.
3
2826-0127
5.
2
2826-0082
1. Insert part 1 into the spectrometer (dashed line in illustration) and fasten with the socket
head screws provided.
148
Version 1.C
JY TRIAX family (NTE without shutter)
Flanged Spectrometer Mount
Remove 4 screws
1
2
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2518-1000
Adapter, TRIAX, NTE, 7377, 7376, 7413
2.
4
2826-0191
Screw, 10-32 × 5/8, Socket Head, Stainless Steel, Hex, Black
Typically, the adapter is shipped already mounted to the detector. The following
procedure is provided in case you have ordered a JY TRIAX adapter for a shutterless
MicroMAX NTE camera that you already own.
1. While supporting the flange, remove the four (4) of the socket head screws from the
front of the detector (see illustration above) and store these screws.
2. Using the four (4) screws provided with the adapter kit, mount part 1 to the front of
the detector.
3. Remove the spectrometer cover.
4. Insert part 1 into the spectrometer and fasten it in place with the spectrometer
setscrew.
Note: Adapter parts are machined to provide a tight fit. It may be necessary to rotate the
detector back and forth when inserting into the spectrometer adapter. Do not force the two
parts of the adapter together, as they can be permanently damaged by excessive force
Appendix D
149
SPEX 270M (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
4
1
3
2
5
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2518-0691
Female Adapter Plate, 2.400 ID
2.
6
2826-0068
Screw, 6-32 × 3/8, Socket Head, Cap, Stainless Steel
3.
1
2518-0690
Adapter, Focusing, Male, Spec 270
4.
3
2826-0127
Screw, 10-32 × 1/4, Button Head, Hex, Stainless Steel
5.
2
2826-0073
Screw 6-32 × 1/8, Set, Allen Hex, Brass Tip
1. Remove the cover of the spectrometer.
2. Attach part 1 to the inner wall of the spectrometer (dashed line in illustration) with
the socket head screws provided.
150
Version 1.C
SPEX 500M (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
1
2
4
3
5
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2517-0214
Adapter-Female, Spex 500m
2.
8
2826-0170
Screw, 1/4-20 × 0.51, Low Socket Head Cap, Black
3.
1
2518-0223
Adapter-Male, Spex 500m
4.
3
2826-0134
Screw, 10-32 × 1/4, Flat Head Slot, Stainless Steel (Prontor)
5.
2
2826-0055
Screw, 8-32 × 14, Set Allen Hex, Nylon
1. Insert part 1 into the spectrometer wall (dashed line in illustration) and fasten with
the socket head screws provided.
2. Attach part 3 to the detector with the three (3) 1/4" long flathead screws provided.
Appendix D
151
SPEX TripleMate (LN with shutter, NTE with or without shutter)
3
1
2
7
6
5
4
Qty
P/N
Description
1.
1
2518-0184
Adapter-Male, LN/TE, CCD/For Spex TripleMate
2.
4
2826-0128
Screw, 10-32 × 5/8, Socket Head Cap, Stainless Steel,
3.
1
2517-0163
Slit Mount, Spex
4.
4
2826-0129
Screw, 1/4-20 × 3/4, Socket Head Cap, Stainless Steel
5.
3
2826-0127
Screw, 10-32 × 1/4, Button Head, Hex, Stainless Steel (Prontor)
6.
1
2518-0185
Adapter-Female, Flange Spex
7.
2
2826-0082
1
2500-0025
O-ring, 2.359x.139, Viton (installed)
1
2500-0026
O-ring, 2.484x.139, Viton (installed)
1. Mount the whole assembly onto the spectrometer.
2. Loosen setscrews and pull out part 1 far enough to enable access to screws with Allen
wrench. Do not pull part 1 past the O-ring (If you do pull out part 1 completely,
reinsert before attaching the detector).
3. Attach the detector to part 1 with the three (3) 1/4" button head screws provided.
4. Tighten the setscrews.
152
Version 1.C
Declarations of Conformity
This section of the VersArray manual contains the declarations of conformity for
VersArray systems. VersArray systems encompass LN-cooled, NTE-cooled, and
TEA-cooled camera heads and their associated controllers.
153
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We,
ROPER SCIENTIFIC
(PRINCETON INSTRUMENTS)
3660 QUAKERBRIDGE ROAD
TRENTON, NJ 08619
Declare under our sole responsibility, that the product
ST-133A CONTROLLER w/LN CAMERA HEAD,
To which this declaration relates, is in conformity with general safety requirement for electrical
equipment standards:
IEC 1010-1:1990, EN 61010-1:1993/A2:1995,
EN 61326 for Class A, 1998,
(EN 61000-4-2, EN 61000-4-3, EN 61000-4-4, EN 61000-4-5,
EN 61000-4-6, EN 61000-4-11),
Which follow the provisions of the
CE LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE 73/23/EEC
And
EMC DIRECTIVE 89/336/EEC.
Date: August 7, 2002
TRENTON, NJ
(PAUL HEAVENER)
Engineering Manager
We,
ROPER SCIENTIFIC
TRENTON, NJ 08619
ST-133A 1MHz HIGH POWER CONTROLLER
w/NTE CAMERA HEAD,
IEC 1010-1:1990, EN 61010-1:1993/A2:1995,
EN 55011 for Group 1, Class A, 1991,
EN50082-1, 1991 (EN 61000-4-2, EN 61000-4-3, EN 61000-4-4),
And
TRENTON, NJ
(PAUL HEAVENER)
Engineering Manager
We,
ROPER SCIENTIFIC
TRENTON, NJ 08619
ST-133A 1MHz HIGH POWER CONTROLLER
w/TEA CAMERA HEAD,
IEC 1010-1:1990, EN 61010-1:1993/A2:1995,
EN 55011 for Group 1, Class A, 1991,
EN50082-1, 1991 (EN 61000-4-2, EN 61000-4-3, EN 61000-4-4),
And
TRENTON, NJ
(PAUL HEAVENER)
Engineering Manager
Warranty & Service
Limited Warranty: Roper Scientific Analytical Instrumentation
Roper Scientific, Inc. (“Roper Scientific,” us,” “we,” “our”) makes the following limited
warranties. These limited warranties extend to the original purchaser (“You”, “you”)
only and no other purchaser or transferee. We have complete control over all warranties
and may alter or terminate any or all warranties at any time we deem necessary.
Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants this product against substantial defects in materials and / or
workmanship for a period of up to one (1) year after shipment. During this period, Roper
Scientific will repair the product or, at its sole option, repair or replace any defective part
without charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the Roper Scientific factory
or, at our option, to a factory-authorized service center. You are responsible for the
shipping costs to return the product. International customers should contact their local
Roper Scientific authorized representative/distributor for repair information and
assistance, or visit our technical support page at www.roperscientific.com.
Limited One (1) Year Warranty on Refurbished or Discontinued
Products
Roper Scientific warrants, with the exception of the CCD imaging device (which carries
NO WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED), this product against defects in materials
or workmanship for a period of up to one (1) year after shipment. During this period,
Roper Scientific will repair or replace, at its sole option, any defective parts, without
charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the Roper Scientific factory or, at
our option, a factory-authorized service center. You are responsible for the shipping costs
to return the product to Roper Scientific. International customers should contact their
local Roper Scientific representative/distributor for repair information and assistance or
visit our technical support page at www.roperscientific.com.
Shutter Limited One Year Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants for a period of up to one (1) year after shipment the standard,
factory-installed camera shutter of all our products that incorporate an integrated shutter.
This limited warranty applies to the standard shutter installed in the camera system at the
time of manufacture. Non-standard shutters, special product request (SPR) shutters, and
third-party shutter drive equipment carry NO WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED. Roper Scientific will supply, at no cost to the customer, up to one (1)
replacement shutter during the warranty period. Roper Scientific will, at Roper
Scientific's option, either ship a ready-to-install shutter to the customer site for
installation by the customer according to the instructions in the product User Manual or
arrange with the customer to return the camera system (or portion of the camera system)
to the factory (or factory-authorized service center) for shutter replacement by us or a
Roper Scientific-authorized agent. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described
above under our Limited One (1) Year Warranty.
157
158
Version 1.C
VersArray (XP) Vacuum Chamber Limited Lifetime Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants that the cooling performance of the system will meet our
specifications over the lifetime of the VersArray (XP) detector or Roper Scientific will, at
its sole option, repair or replace any vacuum chamber components necessary to restore
the cooling performance back to the original specifications at no cost to the original
purchaser. Any failure to “cool to spec” beyond our Basic (1) year limited warranty from
date of shipment, due to a non-vacuum-related component failure (e.g., any components
that are electrical/electronic) is NOT covered and carries NO WARRANTIES
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described above
under our Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty.
Sealed Chamber Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants the sealed chamber integrity of all our products for a period of
twenty-four (24) months after shipment. If, at anytime within twenty-four (24) months
from the date of delivery, the detector should experience a sealed chamber failure, all
parts and labor needed to restore the chamber seal will be covered by us. Open chamber
products carry NO WARRANTY TO THE CCD IMAGING DEVICE, EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described above under our Basic
Limited One (1) Year Warranty.
Vacuum Integrity Limited 24 Month Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants the vacuum integrity of all our products for a period of up to
twenty-four (24) months from the date of shipment. We warrant that the detector head
will maintain the factory-set operating temperature without the requirement for customer
pumping. Should the detector experience a Vacuum Integrity failure at anytime within
twenty-four (24) months from the date of delivery all parts and labor needed to restore
the vacuum integrity will be covered by us. Responsibility for shipping charges is as
described above under our Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty.
Image Intensifier Detector Limited One Year Warranty
All image intensifier products are inherently susceptible to Phosphor and/or Photocathode
burn (physical damage) when exposed to high intensity light. Roper Scientific warrants,
with the exception of image intensifier products that are found to have Phosphor and/or
Photocathode burn damage (which carry NO WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED), all image intensifier products for a period of one (1) year after shipment. See
additional Limited One (1) year Warranty terms and conditions above, which apply to
this warranty. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described above under our Basic
X-Ray Detector Limited One Year Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants, with the exception of CCD imaging device and fiber optic
assembly damage due to X-rays (which carry NO WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED), all X-ray products for one (1) year after shipment. See additional Basic
Limited One (1) year Warranty terms and conditions above, which apply to this
warranty. Responsibility for shipping charges is as described above under our Basic
Warranty & Service
159
Software Limited Warranty
Roper Scientific warrants all of our manufactured software discs to be free from
substantial defects in materials and / or workmanship under normal use for a period of
one (1) year from shipment. Roper Scientific does not warrant that the function of the
software will meet your requirements or that operation will be uninterrupted or error free.
You assume responsibility for selecting the software to achieve your intended results and
for the use and results obtained from the software. In addition, during the one (1) year
limited warranty. The original purchaser is entitled to receive free version upgrades.
Version upgrades supplied free of charge will be in the form of a download from the
Internet. Those customers who do not have access to the Internet may obtain the version
upgrades on a CD-ROM from our factory for an incidental shipping and handling charge.
See Item 12 in the following section of this warranty ("Your Responsibility") for more
information.
Owner's Manual and Troubleshooting
You should read the owner’s manual thoroughly before operating this product. In the
unlikely event that you should encounter difficulty operating this product, the owner’s
manual should be consulted before contacting the Roper Scientific technical support staff
or authorized service representative for assistance. If you have consulted the owner's
manual and the problem still persists, please contact the Roper Scientific technical
support staff or our authorized service representative. See Item 12 in the following section
of this warranty ("Your Responsibility") for more information.
Your Responsibility
The above Limited Warranties are subject to the following terms and conditions:
1. You must retain your bill of sale (invoice) and present it upon request for service
and repairs or provide other proof of purchase satisfactory to Roper Scientific.
2. You must notify the Roper Scientific factory service center within (30) days
after you have taken delivery of a product or part that you believe to be defective.
With the exception of customers who claim a “technical issue” with the operation
of the product or part, all invoices must be paid in full in accordance with the
terms of sale. Failure to pay invoices when due may result in the interruption
and/or cancellation of your one (1) year limited warranty and/or any other
warranty, expressed or implied.
3. All warranty service must be made by the Roper Scientific factory or, at our option,
an authorized service center.
4. Before products or parts can be returned for service you must contact the Roper
Scientific factory and receive a return authorization number (RMA). Products or
parts returned for service without a return authorization evidenced by an RMA
will be sent back freight collect.
5. These warranties are effective only if purchased from the Roper Scientific
factory or one of our authorized manufacturer's representatives or distributors.
6. Unless specified in the original purchase agreement, Roper Scientific is not
responsible for installation, setup, or disassembly at the customer’s location.
160
Version 1.C
7. Warranties extend only to defects in materials or workmanship as limited above
and do not extend to any product or part which has:
•
been lost or discarded by you;
•
been damaged as a result of misuse, improper installation, faulty or
inadequate maintenance or failure to follow instructions furnished by us;
•
had serial numbers removed, altered, defaced, or rendered illegible;
•
been subjected to improper or unauthorized repair; or
•
been damaged due to fire, flood, radiation, or other “acts of God” or other
contingencies beyond the control of Roper Scientific.
8. After the warranty period has expired, you may contact the Roper Scientific
factory or a Roper Scientific-authorized representative for repair information
and/or extended warranty plans.
9. Physically damaged units or units that have been modified are not acceptable for
repair in or out of warranty and will be returned as received.
10. All warranties implied by state law or non-U.S. laws, including the implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly
limited to the duration of the limited warranties set forth above. With the
exception of any warranties implied by state law or non-U.S. laws, as hereby
limited, the forgoing warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties,
guarantees, agreements, and similar obligations of manufacturer or seller with
respect to the repair or replacement of any parts. In no event shall Roper
Scientific’s liability exceed the cost of the repair or replacement of the defective
product or part.
11. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other
rights that may vary from state to state and from country to country. Some states
and countries do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts,
when an action may be brought, or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above provisions may not apply to you.
12. When contacting us for technical support or service assistance, please refer to the
Roper Scientific factory of purchase, contact your authorized Roper Scientific
representative or reseller, or visit our technical support page at
www.roperscientific.com.
Contact Information
Roper Scientific's manufacturing facility for this product is located at the following
address:
Roper Scientific
3660 Quakerbridge Road
Trenton, NJ 08619 (USA)
Tel: 609-587-9797
Fax: 609-587-1970
Technical Support E-mail: [email protected]
For technical support and service outside the United States, see our web page at
www.roperscientific.com. An up-to-date list of addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail
addresses of Roper Scientific's overseas offices and representatives is maintained on the
web page.
Index
#
64-pin DIN connector
70 V shutter option
83, 101
85
A
A/B setpoints (Autofill System)
controller output
Fill LED
A/D converters, dual
AC power requirements
Accessories, alignment of
Activity LED (Autofill System)
Acton adapter instructions
Adapter instructions
Acton
Chromex 250 IS
ISA HR 320
JY TRIAX
SPEX 270M
SPEX 500M
SPEX TripleMate
Adapter, Dewar (Autofill System)
Air-circulation requirement
Analog channels
Analog/Control module
Audible alarm (Autofill system)
Autofill system
audible alarm
calibration
components
Model 186 front panel
Model 186 rear panel
specifications
unpacking
AUX BNC connector
128
129
129
79
24
64
121, 127
144
144
145
146
148
149
150
151
119
82
79
83, 84
127
119
127
125
119, 120
121
122
141
120
105
B
Background DC level
Background subtraction
Back-plane
Baseline signal
excessive humidity
ST-133A zero adjustment
sudden change in
troubleshooting
Baud rate control (Autofill System)
75
69
83
55, 75
75
85
75
92
131
Binning
along columns
along rows
computer memory burden
hardware
on-chip
readout time
resolution loss
software
effect on S/N ratio
high light level measurements
shot-noise limited measurements
well capacity
Blooming
Bottom clamps, table of
30
30
78
77
77
78
78
78
79
79
79
79
75
36
C
Calibration (Autofill System)
closed Dewar
presetting MAX/MIN points
remote commands
Calibration, spectrometer
suitable light sources
Camera
Type 1
Type 2
Capacitance (Autofill System)
Cautions
coolant fittings
coolant mixture
coolant pH
coolant temperature
DMA and Interrupt
excessive humidity in CCD chamber
IR contamination
scintillator & UV
CCD array
blooming
dark charge effects
functions performed
maximum on-chip integration
readout of
readout theory
shift register
shutter function
signal-to-noise ratio vs on chip integration time
square format
125
126
135
64
32
32
125
41
41
41
41
97
75
38
15
75
75
73
75
75
76
76
74
75
30
161
162
CCD array (cont.)
theory of operation
73
well capacity
75
Chromex 250 IS adapter instructions
145
Cleaning
camera
16
controller
16
CRYOTIGER compressor
16
optical surfaces
16
C-mount
36
adapters
27
assembly
36
lens installation/removal
27
support recommendations
36
Cold finger
48
Commands-serial communication (Autofill System)
132
Compensation time, shutter
74
Composite video output
84
Configuration (Autofill System)
A/B setpoints
128
controller output mode
129
fill timer
129
HI setpoint
128
LO setpoint
128
units mode
130
Connectors
detector
82
detector shutter
82
LEMO
82
Model 186, Auxiliary
122
Model 186, controller output receptacle
122
Model 186, input power
122
Model 186, J2 pinout
136
Model 186, RG-59/U
122
Model 186, RS-232/422
122
ST-133A, AUX Output
85
ST-133A, Detector
85
ST-133A, External Sync
84
85, 104
ST-133A,
84, 104
ST-133A,
ST-133A, Serial COM
84
ST-133A, TTL In/Out
84
ST-133A, Video Output
84
Contact information
141, 160
Controller modules
83
Controller output (Autofill System)
A/B setpoints
129
mode
129
Coolant
mixture ratio
24
pH of
41, 48
ports
82
temperature control
24
Coolant circulator
coolant flow rate
coolant mixture
coolant temperature
fluid pressure (max.)
fluid pressure, maximum
installation
Cooling
Cooling and vacuum
operation and maintenance
setup
specifications
troubleshooting
voltage settings
warnings and cautions
Version 1.C
43
41
41
24
43
41
82
95
53
44, 52
105
96
25
44, 52
D
Dark charge
34, 69
definition of
75
dynamic range
75
pattern
75
temperature dependence
75
typical values
75
Dark current
75
Data logger-serial communication (Autofill System)
131
DB-25 to DB-9 translation (Autofill System)
136
Declaration of Conformity
LN systems
154
NTE systems
155
TEA systems
156
Detector connector (ST-133A)
85
Detector fan
82
Detector, rotation of
64
Dewar
all-directional
82
autofill system
119
capacity
82
installing autofill sensor
122
Diagnostic Instruments Bottom Clamp
35
Diagnostic Instruments Relay Lens
35
Dielectric constants, table of
137
Digitization
79
Diode, thermal sensing
48
DIP switch settings (Autofill System)
131
DMA buffer size
60, 63
DMA Buffer size
63
Dual A/D converters option (ST-133A)
79
Dynamic range
75
E
Echo - serial communication (Autofill System) 131
EEV
31
Electrical connection lubricant (ECL)
123
EMF spike
38, 59
Index
163
Enclosures
CCD
48
heat-removal block and coolant
48
Environmental conditions
23
Environmental requirements
23
ESD precautions
138
Ethylene glycol
41
Excessive humidity
75
Exposure
74
readout
73
shutter
74
time
66
External Sync
background subtraction
69
dark charge accumulation
69
input pulse
68
shutter synchronization
69
timing
68
timing mode
68
External synchronization
See External Sync
F
Fan
detector
ST-133A
Field of view
Fill LED (Autofill System)
Fill timer (Autofill System)
First light
Flow rate, coolant
Fluid pressure, flow rate
Fluorescent probe
F-mount
assembly of
operation with microscope bottom port
support recommendations
Focusing
alignment
F-mount adapter
lens
microscope
Freerun
experiments best suited for
timing
diagram
flowchart
mode of data synchronization
Frost
Full frame readout
Full Speed mode
data acquisition
flowchart
image update lag
Fuse
replacement, Model 186
82
23, 84
57
129
129
59, 62
43
24, 43
34
35
35
35
63
56
57
56
68
68
68
68
50
76
65
65
67
65
138, 140
Fuse (cont.)
replacement, ST-133A
requirements, ST-133A
93
24
G-J
Gain, setting criteria
58
Grounding and safety (ST-133A)
14
Hardware binning
77
HI Level LED (Autofill System)
128
HI setpoint (Autofill System)
128
J2 - pins 7&8
128
HI/LO contacts specifications (Autofill System) 136
Hose connections
41
I/O Address conflicts
97
Ice buildup
50
IEC Publication 348
14
Installation
coolant circulator
41
hose connections
41
PCI card driver
27
PCI drivers
26
software
26
tubing
41
Interactive communication (Autofill System)
130
Interface card
driver installation
26
PCI
26
High Speed PCI
26
PCI(Timer)
26
Interface Control module
83, 84
Interrupt conflicts
97
Interval timeout (Autofill System)
129
IR
blockers
38
CCD sensitivity to
38
ISA HR 320 adapter instructions
146
ISA interface card
driver installation
94
I/O address, DMA channel, and interrupt level 97
JY TRIAX adapter instructions
148
L-O
LEMO connector
Lenses
C-mount adapter
F-mount adapter
mounting
removal
Light throughput
Line voltage selection (ST-133A)
procedure
selector drum
Live cell fluorescence microscopy
LO Level LED (Autofill System)
LO setpoint (Autofill System)
J2 - pins 5&6
82
27
28
29
29
34
93
25
34
128
128
128
164
Maintenance
Memory allocation
Mercury spectrum, fluorescent lights
Microscope mounting
C-mount
F-mount
Microscopy
applications
arc lamp EMF spike damage warning
focusing
IR blockers
light throughput
parfocality
Xenon or Hg lamp EMF spike
Model 186 features
front panel
rear panel
Mounting
microscope
C-mount
F-mount
spectrometer
NOTSCAN signal
NOTREADY signal
Overexposure protection
16
60, 63
64
34
36
35
34
38, 59
37
38
34
37
38, 59
121
122
34
36
35
29
84, 104
85, 104
27, 33
P-R
Parfocality
PCI
diagnostics software
non-conforming peripheral cards
PCI card driver installation
PCI serial interface card
driver installation
installation
Photodamage
Plug-in modules, installation and removal
Power cord
Power module (ST-133A)
Power requirements
Power switch and indicator
Preopen Shutter mode
Procedures
adapter installation
line voltage selection and line fuse
plug-in module installation/removal
Programmable TTL interface
connector
pinout levels
Quantum Efficiency (QE)
Readout
binning
hardware
software
37
98
99
27
26
27
34
101
23
85
24
83
69
143
93
101
84
87
34
77
77
78
Version 1.C
Readout (cont.)
rate
control of
precision vs speed tradeoff
subsection of array
time
signal
Relay Lens
Remote calibration, autofill system
Requirements
environmental
power
ventilation
Resolution, loss of with binning
Return authorization
RS-422 cable wiring (Autofill System)
79
79
77
66
85, 104
35
135
23
24
23
78
141
137
S
S/N ratio
Safe (Asynchronous) mode
as used for setting up
fast image update
missed events
Safety related symbols used in manual
Saturation
signal
Serial COM connector, ST-133/ST-133A
Serial communication (Autofill System)
Baud rate
command set
connector/cables
data logger
DIP switch settings
echo function
interactive communication
remote calibration
termination characters
Setup
cable connections
Shift register
Shutter
35 mm for TE-cooled
40 mm for LN-cooled
compensation time
detector connector
effect on exposure
exposure
lifetime
modes
Disable
Normal
Preopen
photodamage minimization
shutter setting selector (ST-133A)
signs of failure
75, 79
65
65
66
14
75
84, 104
84
131
132
130
131
131
131
130
135
130
58
76
81
81
74
82
74
74
39, 81
66
66
66, 69
34
85
100
Index
Shutter (cont.)
ST-133A connector
window
SHUTTER MONITOR signal
Signal-to-noise ratio
on-chip integration
Smearing
Software binning
Specifications
Autofill system
camera head
focal distance
shutter
ST-133A
Spectrometer
adapter instructions
Spectrometers
Acton
Chromex 250IS
deep focal plane
deep focal plane adapters
exit plane
ISA HR320
ISA HR640
mounting camera
SPEX 270M adapter instructions
SPEX 500M adapter instructions
SPEX TripleMate adapter instructions
ST-133A Controller
description of
fuse/voltage label
grounding and safety
power module
power requirements
zero adjustment
165
85
81
84, 104
75
74
79
141
104
105
103
103
104
143
30
30
30
30
32
30
30
29
149
150
151
83
85
14
85
24
85
T
Technical support
TEK
TEMP LOCK indicator
Temperature
control problems
thermal cutout switch
Temperature control
effect of vacuum deterioration
introduction to
Temperature lock
Temperature Lock LED (ST-133A)
Termination characters (Autofill System)
Thermal cutout switch
Thermoelectric cooler
Timing control
Timing modes
table of
141, 160
31
55
95
95
95
55
55
84
130
95
48
65
66
65
Transmission efficiency
Trinocular output port
Troubleshooting
Autofill System
checking communications setup
controller responds with -8
erratic display
no controller output
no level reading
power LED off
replacing the fuse
contacting customer support
coolant
temperature lock
vacuum deterioration
TTL In/Out
hardware interface
pin assignments
ST-133A connector
Tubing connections
Tygon tubing
Type 1 camera
Type 2 camera
34
35
140
140
139
140
138
138
138
141
95
95
95
89
87
84
41
24
32
32
U-Z
Units Mode (Autofill System)
remote commands
132
toggle switch
121, 130
Vacuum deterioration
95
Ventilation requirements
23
Warnings
cleaning
16
Controller/Camera cable
84
coolant hazard
24
coolant pH
41
CRYOTIGER
44, 52
flammable gas
44, 52
fuse type
93
Model 186 damage due to power source
138
Model 186 fuse replacement
138, 140
Model 186 output receptacle terminals
123
Model 186 power requirements
123
Model 186 powercord
124
module installation/removal under power
83
opening the power input module
93
overtightening the ST-133 module screws
101
protective grounding
14
replacement powercord
14
shutter selection setting
41
ST-133A module installation/removal under power
100, 101
touching the CCD array
15
toxicity
44, 52
Xenon and Hg arc lamps
38, 59
166
Warranties
image intensifier detector
one year
owner's manual and troubleshooting
refurbished or discontinued products
sealed chamber
shutter
software
158
157
159
157
158
157
159
Warranties (cont.)
vacuum integrity
VersArray (XP) vacuum chamber
x-ray detector
your responsibility
Website
Well capacity
blooming
restrictions on hardware binning
saturation
Version 1.C
158
158
158
159
160
75
75
79
75

VersArray System Manual

Transcription

Similar documents

ximea mq022

SC-2000 Shutter Controller

COBRACAM PRO

Your Partner in Taxi Safety Your Partner in Taxi Safety 1

fastvision - Advanced Imaging

HD ENDOCAM® 5509

Digital SLR Camera Basics Learning Objectives Digital Single

free photo guide - Martin Birks Photography

nikon mf-21 back - Earth Sea Publishing

universiti teknologi mara a study on the efficiency of digital